Our Summary

This research paper is about breast-conserving surgery (BCS), a preferred surgical method for early invasive breast cancer. One key aspect of this surgery is the pathological diagnosis of the “margin” or the edge of the tissue removed during surgery. Currently, there isn’t a standard method for conducting a pathological biopsy or diagnosing the safety of the margin in breast-conserving surgery.

In this study, researchers compared how these procedures are performed at two different institutions - Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital in China and the MD Anderson Cancer Center in the United States. The goal is to understand how to correctly assess the margin of the tissue removed during breast-conserving surgery from a pathological point of view to ensure the surgery’s success.

FAQs

  1. What is the significance of pathological diagnosis of margin in breast-conserving surgery?
  2. How do the biopsy and diagnosis methods of breast-conserving surgery specimens differ between Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital in China and MD Anderson Cancer Center in the United States?
  3. What is the objective of summarizing the biopsy method and diagnostic criteria used for breast-conserving surgery specimens?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast biopsy is to follow post-procedure care instructions carefully, including keeping the biopsy site clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities that could cause bleeding or discomfort, and watching for any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus. It is also important to follow up with the doctor for the biopsy results and discuss any further treatment options if needed.

Suitable For

Breast biopsy is typically recommended for patients who have suspicious or abnormal findings on a mammogram, ultrasound, or physical exam. These findings may include a lump in the breast, changes in the skin or nipple, or abnormal areas seen on imaging tests. Patients who have a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing breast cancer may also be recommended for a breast biopsy. Additionally, patients who have had previous breast cancer or other breast abnormalities may be recommended for regular breast biopsies to monitor for any changes or recurrence of disease.

Timeline

Before breast biopsy:

  1. Patient notices a breast lump or other abnormality during self-examination or routine screening.
  2. Patient consults with a healthcare provider who recommends a breast biopsy based on physical examination and imaging tests.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-biopsy counseling to discuss the procedure, risks, and potential outcomes.

During breast biopsy:

  1. Patient receives local anesthesia to numb the biopsy site.
  2. Healthcare provider uses a needle or surgical instrument to extract a sample of tissue from the breast.
  3. Sample is sent to a pathology lab for analysis.

After breast biopsy:

  1. Patient may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the biopsy site.
  2. Pathology report is generated to provide a diagnosis based on the tissue sample.
  3. Patient meets with healthcare provider to discuss the results and potential treatment options.
  4. If cancer is detected, patient may undergo further tests and treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about breast biopsy include:

  1. What type of biopsy will be performed and why?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the biopsy procedure?
  3. How long will it take to receive the results of the biopsy?
  4. What do abnormal biopsy results mean and what further testing or treatment may be necessary?
  5. Will the biopsy procedure leave a scar or affect the appearance of the breast?
  6. How will the biopsy results impact my treatment plan and prognosis?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the biopsy procedure?
  8. Can I get a second opinion on the biopsy results?
  9. What follow-up appointments will be necessary after the biopsy?
  10. Are there any alternative biopsy methods or treatment options available?

Reference

Authors: Lyu JK, Yang YL, Fu L. Journal: Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi. 2021 Aug 23;43(8):817-820. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn112152-20200813-00738. PMID: 34407584