Local antibiotic prophylaxis in breast reconstruction with breast implants

Abstract

Introduction: Local antibiotic prophylaxis in breast reconstruction with implants is a widely used method aimed at reducing postoperative infections, biofilm formation, and the incidence of capsular contracture, which can ultimately lead to implant loss, breast implant illness, or breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Currently, there is no convincing guideline or protocol for irrigation, nor a specific antibiotic or combination of antibiotics set. The objective of this systematic review is to summarize the existing knowledge on this topic based on available research.

Methods: A literature review was conducted using the PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar databases / search engines, focusing on local antibiotic prophylaxis in breast implant reconstruction.

Results: A total of seven studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected from 79 articles. Across all studies, seven different antibiotic irrigation solutions were compared, involving a total of 2,637 patients.

Conclusion: The study findings suggest that local antibiotic prophylaxis is effective in preventing early surgical site infections and capsular contracture. However, the method­ology and study design raise concerns about potential bias and the overall reliability of the results. We believe that this issue remains insufficiently explored and that further high-quality evidence is necessary to establish its efficacy. A clearly defined protocol should be developed and incorporated into official guidelines.

doi: 10.48095/ccrvch2025487