Simulation studies for predicting surgical outcomes in breast reconstructive surgery

Abstract

Currently, there is no reliable method to accurately predict the outcome of breast reconstruction for an individual patient prior to surgery. To address this limitation, we are developing a simulation system capable of rendering patient-specific predictions of the post-operative breast shape. Such a system for the planning of breast reconstructive surgery will greatly enhance patient prognosis. In this paper, we present our computer simulations representing the reconstructed breast using idealized and realistic geometric models. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2003.