Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) assisted breast reconstruction procedures: joint guidelines from the Association of Breast Surgery and the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons.

Tissue expansion with delayed insertion of a definitive prosthesis is the most common form of immediate breast reconstruction performed in the United Kingdom. However, achieving total muscle coverage of the implant and natural ptosis is a key technical challenge. The use of acellular dermal matrices (ADM) to supplement the pectoralis major muscle at the lower and lateral aspects of the breast has been widely adopted in the UK, potentially allowing for a single stage procedure. There is however little published data on the clinical and quality criteria for its use, and no long term follow-up. The guidelines have been jointly produced by the Association of Breast Surgery and the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons and their aims are: to inform those wishing to undertake ADM assisted breast reconstruction and, to identify clinical standards and quality indicators for audit purposes. The guidelines are based on expert opinion of a multi-disciplinary working group, who are experienced in the technique, and a review of the published data.