Effect of propranolol on capsular reaction around silicone implants in guinea pigs.

PURPOSE To evaluate the effect of propranolol on capsular architecture around silicone implants by measuring the inflammation, capsular thickness, and collagen fiber density, using a guinea pig experimental model. METHODS Thirty six adult male guinea pigs randomly divided into two groups (n=18) were used. Each one received a silicone implant with textured-surface. The capsular tissue around implants from untreated or treated animals with the beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol (10 mg/kg, dissolved in daily water) were analyzed for inflammation by histological scoring, capsular thickness by computerized histometry, and collagen fibers type I and Type III density by picrosirius polarization at different time points (7, 14 or 21 days after silicone implantation). RESULTS Propranolol treatment reduced inflammation and impaired capsular thickness and delayed collagen maturation around the textured implant. CONCLUSION Propranolol reduces the risk of developing capsular contracture around silicone implants with textured surface.