Is the Vectra 3D Imaging System a Reliable Tool for Predicting Breast Mass?

Abstract

Background In selecting breast implants for breast reconstruction, current preoperative planning largely relies on 2-dimensional measurements, which are often limited in suboptimal accuracy and objectivity. Although the introduction of 3-dimensional imaging modalities has further improved preoperative planning, they require in-depth analysis of accuracy if they are to be considered as a standardized part of preoperative planning. Thus, the present study analyzes the reliability of the Vectra 3D Imaging System in predicting breast mass and explores potential confounding variables that may limit its accuracy. Methods A retrospective review of 202 breasts that received direct-to-implant reconstruction by a single surgeon between February 2015 and February 2019 was conducted. Variables recorded included Vectra predicted mass (VPM; in grams), mastectomy mass (MM; in grams), ptosis grade, and body mass index (BMI). Body mass index was classified as follows: underweight (BMI < 20 kg/m2), normal (20 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 25 kg/m2), overweight (25 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 30 kg/m2), and obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). Cup size was approximated as follows: A and smaller (MM ≤250 g), B (250 g < MM ≤ 450 g), C (450 g < MM ≤ 600 g), and D and larger (MM ≥ 600 g). Correlation between MM and VPM was evaluated using 2-tailed Pearson correlation coefficients (r), and associated formula was derived from a linear model. Equality of variances was assessed with the Bartlett test. Correlation coefficients calculated for ptosis and BMI categories were then compared with the overall correlation coefficient. Significance was set at α = 0.05, and analyses were conducted in R 3.6.0, version 1.70. Results There was a strong correlation between MM and VPM (R = 0.90, P < 0.0001). The following equation was derived to predict MM: [MM] = 0.8 × [VPM] + 32 (adjusted r 2 = 0.81). The Bartlett test indicated that VPM varies significantly across cup sizes (P < 0.0001). Comparison of correlation coefficients for ptosis and BMI categories revealed a significantly reduced correlation coefficient for pseudoptosis (0.90 vs 0.75, P = 0.0425). Conclusions The present study suggests that the reliability of Vectra in predicting breast mass varies across cup sizes and that there exists a significantly decreased association between VPM and MM among pseudoptotic breasts. These are important considerations when using this technology in surgical planning.

Aesthetic Characteristics of the Ideal Female Breast

“…Finally, although the Vectra 3D system has repeatedly demonstrated reliability in estimating breast volumes, variance across cup sizes has been previously observed and the possibility of user error inevitably exists. 22 , 23 …”

“…Finally, although the Vectra 3D system has repeatedly demonstrated reliability in estimating breast volumes, variance across cup sizes has been previously observed and the possibility of user error inevitably exists. 22,23 It must also be emphasized that this study does not seek to define a universal standard for breast aesthetics nor does it in any way attempt to classify features and characteristics as attractive or unattractive. As reflected by the findings herein, perceptions and standards of beauty vary widely from individual to individual or across groups of various ages, cultural backgrounds, and gender or sexual identities.…”

Correction of Mild-to-Moderate Sunken Upper Eyelids of Asians with Stromal Vascular Fraction Gel

“…During our study, the effective survival volume was used to assess the fat survival rate, which is similar to the augmentation rate (final volume augmented/initial recipient site volume) [ 29 ]. The VECTRA ® 3D imaging system (Canfield Scientific Inc.), which is used worldwide, is mainly used to assess mammaplasty results in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery [ 30 – 34 ]. Limited reports have addressed the application of this particular system for the evaluation of facial aesthetic surgery results, especially in the periorbital area [ 35 , 36 ].…”

Improving symmetry of nipple–areola complex (NAC) position in reduction mammoplasty using laser level projection

“…Standard follow-up measurements were obtained after 3 months, 6 months and 12 months using a standardized follow-up protocol, including standardised photography, 19 measurements of deviation of nipple height, SSN-to-nipple distances, 6,8 MC-to-nipple distances, three-dimensional volumetric evaluations, 20,21 scar quality and patients satisfaction.…”