Assessment of breast volume using 3D photography
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Reproducibility of the assessment of breast volume using 3D photography
IRAS ID
129016
Contact name
Jennifer Rusby
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
Research summary
Three-dimensional (3D) photography allows measurements of certain parameters of breast shape (sternal-notch to nipple distance, nipple to inframammary crease distance) and calculation of breast volume. This detailed measurement may facilitate assessment of results of breast surgery, ultimately leading to improved patient satisfaction.
By conducting a feasibility study involving 20 women who have undergone unilateral breast surgery, we aim to establish a reproducible method for the measurement of breast volume with 3D photography in a clinical setting. We will investigate how both the volume of the treated breast and the natural breast varies according to posture and whether the method can be reproduced. We will also carry out a preliminary investigation of how this compares with the patient’s perception of symmetry in her breasts using a questionnaire.
Once we have established this method, we plan to proceed to several further studies including assessment of overall and focal volume deficits after breast-conserving surgery and a longer-term study requiring repeated photography over time to investigate the impact of post-mastectomy radiotherapy on immediate breast reconstruction.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/YH/0175
Date of REC Opinion
10 Jun 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion