Desmoid Tumor and Silicone Breast Implant Surgery: Is There Really a Connection? A Literature Review

Background Desmoid tumors are borderline tumors of the connective tissue, arising in the musculo-aponeurotic stromal elements. A desmoid tumor (DT) has an infiltrative and locally aggressive growth pattern and usually does not metastasize; however, it has a high recurrence and complication rate. DT located in the breast (BDT) represents a rare extra-abdominal form. Recently, the presence of breast silicone implants was suggested by several researchers as a risk factor for developing BDT. Objectives The goal of this review is to investigate the possible correlation between BDT and breast implant surgery. Methods We conducted a literature review of BDT-reported cases, associated with breast implant surgery. Results The search revealed 36 cases of BDT associated with silicone breast implants. Conclusions Based on the reviewed data, the incidence of BDT following breast implant surgery is lower than BDT in the general population. At the moment, a possible association between breast implants and the development of breast desmoid tumors cannot be unequivocally confirmed. A world registry with accurate documentation of each case of BDT associated with breast implant surgery should be performed for future investigation. Level of Evidence II This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .