In the ever-evolving world of medical technology, a recent study has shed new light on the long-term durability of silicone breast implants, offering valuable insights that could reshape the industry and its practices. Led by Vladimir V. Shadrin of the Institute of Continuous Media Mechanics UB RAS and Perm State National Research University in Russia, the research delves into the deformability and strength of silicone breast implant shells from various manufacturers, providing a comprehensive analysis of their performance over time.
The study, published in the journal “Exploration of BioMat-X” (translated from Russian as “Exploration of Biomaterials-X”), examined approximately 200 shells from Eurosilicone, Mentor, Motiva, Allergan, Arion, and PIP silicone breast implants. These implants had been removed from patients for various reasons and had been in the body for periods ranging from six months to 29 years. The researchers compared the mechanical properties of these used implants with those of four unused Eurosilicone and Motiva implants, using a videoXtens extensometer to measure deformation.
One of the key findings was that the mechanical properties of Allergan implant shells closely matched those of Eurosilicone shells after nine years of use. Mentor implants, on the other hand, demonstrated greater strength and stiffness. Motiva implant shells initially exhibited higher ultimate properties—rupture stress and rupture strain—compared to Eurosilicone shells. However, the study revealed that the strength and deformation properties of all examined breast implant shells decrease over time. After 13 years of use, the strength of the implants was found to be halved, and their rupture strain was reduced by one-third.
“The main mechanism responsible for loss of strength is the accumulation of microdamages during long-term use of breast implants,” Shadrin explained. This insight underscores the importance of understanding the long-term performance of medical devices and the need for ongoing research in this area.
The study also highlighted that the thickness of the nano-textured shells of Motiva implants was half that of Eurosilicone implant shells. This reduction in thickness was achieved due to a significant increase in the mechanical properties of Motiva shells, demonstrating the potential for innovation in implant design.
The findings of this research have significant implications for the medical device industry and patient care. By understanding the long-term durability of silicone breast implants, manufacturers can improve their designs to enhance patient safety and satisfaction. Additionally, healthcare providers can make more informed decisions about the types of implants they use and the expected lifespan of these devices.
As the field of medical technology continues to advance, research like this plays a crucial role in shaping the future of breast implant technology. By providing a deeper understanding of the mechanical properties and long-term performance of these devices, Shadrin and his team have contributed valuable knowledge that could lead to better outcomes for patients and advancements in the industry.
In the words of Shadrin, “This research not only advances our understanding of breast implant durability but also paves the way for future innovations in medical device design.” As the industry continues to evolve, the insights gained from this study will be instrumental in driving progress and improving patient care.