A new type of breast implant was recently created by Brown University researchers, which is reputed to repel cancerous cells. What makes this implant different is its ridged surface. The scientists created a surface for the breast implant that is made of a surgical grade polymer, which has microscopic raised lumps, similar to a bed of nails. This surface deters malignant breast cancer cells from attaching to the implant.

The scientists built the implant's polymer casing themselves, using polystyrene beads (23 nanometers in diameter) and attaching them to an FDA-approved biodegradable polymer often used for stitches and other clinical applications. They formed a cast on a sheet of class and began testing. They also created other versions with different sizes of the polystyrene beads. They tried 200- and 300-nanometer beads, but found that the 23 nanometer beads were the best for repelling the cancer's regrowth. To put size in perspective, one nanometer is equal to a millionth of a millimeter. There are 25.4 millimeters in an inch. The beads would be almost impossible to see without a microscope.

The researchers believe that polystyrene beads less than 23 nanometers may be even more effective than they currently are, however, beads that minuscule do not exist yet. The researchers will be conducting their experiment with different materials, trying to produce the similar result. They will also be experimenting to find out exactly why these nano-modified surfaces deter malignant cells.

Currently, roughly one in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. These women will have to undergo chemotherapy such as Arimidex or Femara, surgery such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy, and often choose to have reconstructive surgery. However, there is always the chance of a relapse, of the cancer growing back. That is where this deterrent implant would come in. Breast cancer cells would hopefully be unable to attach to the implant, and without an "anchor" it would be much more difficult for them to multiply. This is great news for women who have already undergone stressful hormone and chemotherapy, or painful surgery and rehabilitation. With these implants, they could have a beautiful reconstructed breast (or pair of breasts) without having to worry about their cancer returning.

If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, your doctor will often recommend hormone therapy drugs for you. Cancer medications are some of the most expensive on the market today, costing hundreds of dollars for only a week's supply. However, you can often save a significant amount by buying online from a Canadian pharmacy. You can buy Femara or generic Arimmidex for significantly less by filling your prescription online.

Author:

Julia Mulline is a medical writer based out of Vancouver BC. She recommends CanadaDrugsOnline.com, a licensed Canadian pharmacy, to buy Femara or generic Arimidex. The pharmacy has an online division where American customers can take advantage of Canadian pricing.