The mammogram with implants course covers a wide range of information, starting with the history of breast augmentation, problems, and FDA regulation. Various types of breast implants are explored, including silicone gel, silicone gel with textured coating, saline implants, biocompatible gel implants, and polyurethane-coated implants.
Other topics covered in the course include tissue expanders in preparation for reconstructive surgery post-mastectomy, surgical placement of breast implants, breast reconstruction with implants and flaps, and microsurgical reconstruction. Known risks and complications, like implant encapsulation, asymmetry, capsular contracture, deflation, rupture, leakage, pain, rippling, infection, hematoma, loss of sensation, herniation, breastfeeding and the effects on infants, calcium deposits, bottoming out, keloid scarring, malposition, extrusion, atrophy, and Mondor’s bands. Reductive mammoplasty is also covered.
One serious complication of breast implants is the risk that something will be missed on a mammogram, making self-breast exams essential. This course covers what patients should look for when performing a self breast tissue examination. Details about reading the imaging of a breast with implants are reviewed, including various problems the mammographer may have and how to correct or work around them. The use of compression with implants is covered in detail and there are step-by-step instructions for positioning to obtain each projection. Ultrasound, MRI, biopsies, and cancer treatment in women with implants are also considered.
This self-directed course is worth 2 continuing education credits and includes a 20 question multiple-choice online exam, and includes a variety of images related to mammography with implants throughout.