Immediate breast reconstruction using 3D imaging and simulation to measure effects of radiotherapy

The IMpact of 3D Surface Imaging and Simulation on Shared Decision Making in Immediate Breast REconstruction And the Measurement of the EffectS of RadioTherapy

Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust · NCT07136753

This project will test whether 3D surface photos and simulated images help women having a mastectomy with immediate reconstruction feel more confident about their likely appearance, help surgeons plan to reduce later correction surgery, and measure how radiotherapy changes breast shape.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust (other)
Locations1 site (London)
Trial IDNCT07136753 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study will use 3D surface imaging (3D-SI) and computer simulation to show expected postoperative appearance and to take objective measurements of breast shape before and after immediate reconstruction. Participants include adult women undergoing mastectomy with immediate implant or autologous reconstruction who can attend scheduled imaging visits and complete questionnaires. Researchers will compare patient confidence, surgical planning decisions, and rates of later adjustment surgery, and will track changes in breast shape following radiotherapy. The approach combines patient-facing simulated images with quantitative 3D measurements to link expectations, surgical choices, and long-term aesthetic outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adult women (over 18) undergoing immediate breast reconstruction—implant or autologous—after mastectomy for cancer or risk reduction who can attend 3D imaging appointments and complete English questionnaires are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients who are having delayed reconstruction, cannot attend in-person imaging, have significant visual or positioning limitations, lack capacity, or cannot complete English questionnaires are unlikely to benefit from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could improve patient expectations and satisfaction, help surgeons plan reconstructions that need fewer revision operations, and clarify how radiotherapy affects reconstructed breasts.

How similar studies have performed: 3D surface imaging and simulation are commonly used in cosmetic and reconstructive practice and smaller studies suggest they can aid expectations and planning, but large-scale evidence on reducing revision surgery and quantifying radiotherapy effects is limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female
* Aged \> 18
* Undergoing immediate breast reconstruction (autologous or implant based) follow mastectomy for breast cancer or as a risk-reducing strategy
* Available to attend 3D-SI appointments at specified intervals

Exclusion Criteria:

* Lack of capacity
* Language barrier that prevents patients from understanding the English questionnaires
* Visual impairment
* Unable to answer study questionnaires
* Disability that may prevent appropriate positioning during the imaging process
* Unable to attend for photography
* Requiring delayed reconstruction or no longer considering a reconstruction

Where this trial is running

London

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Breast Cancer, Decision making, Reconstruction, Risk reducing surgery

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.