Fact-sheet: Intra-capsular breast implant rupture


Updated on 08/26/2020 at 4:19 PM

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Definition

Intracapsular rupture: rupture of the implant shell with silicone remaining contained by the fibrous capsule

Clinical features

  • Asymptomatic
  • Sensation of the implant becoming soft
  • Change in contour

Radiography

Mammography often normal.
Enlargement of the implant compared with the prior contralateral image.

Ultrasound

Sensitivity 59-85%, specificity 55-79%

Rupture of the elastomer shell floating in a coiled pattern, the "linguine sign" (parallel linear hyperechoic elements)

"Stepladder sign"

MRI

Silicone-specific sequences (depending on the type of implant, with water and fat signal suppression)

  • Linguine sign
  • "Teardrop" images
  • Subcapsular lines extending from one edge of the implant to the other, rather parallel to the implant border

Differential diagnosis

  • Normal radial fold: linear hypointensity extending from a single edge of the implant and terminating within the silicone lumen, with an orientation rather perpendicular to the implant border
  • Extracapsular rupture of a breast implant