Breast Implant Infections after Surgical Reconstruction in Patients with Breast Cancer: Assessment of Risk Factors and Pathogens over Extended Post-Operative Observation

Abstract

Extended post-operative surveillance is indicated, at least for the first six months after breast implant placement, particularly for women who need radiotherapy or chemotherapy after implant surgery. Gram-negative bacilli may be involved more often in late infections than otherwise expected. This finding may influence initial empiric antibiotic treatment.