Our Summary

This research paper aimed to understand the effects of a drug called S-ketamine on patients’ recovery quality and cognitive function after a specific type of breast cancer surgery (Modified Radical Mastectomy). The study included 90 patients aged between 45 and 70 years, who were divided into two groups. One group was given S-ketamine, while the other group (control group) was given a different set of drugs.

The researchers used different scores and tests to measure the patients’ mental state, recovery quality, pain level, and overall satisfaction after surgery. They found that the group given S-ketamine had significantly better recovery quality scores on the first and second days after surgery. These patients also reported better physical comfort, less pain, and a better emotional state. Additionally, on the first day after surgery, the S-ketamine group showed better cognitive function recovery, meaning they had a sharper mental state. However, this significant improvement was not observed on the second day.

The group that received S-ketamine also showed a decrease in opioid consumption (strong pain relief drugs), better pain scores, and less need for additional pain relief. Overall, the study suggests that using S-ketamine for anesthesia in this type of surgery can enhance patients’ recovery quality, particularly by improving pain management, physical comfort, and emotional state. It also seems to improve cognitive function recovery on the first day after surgery.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the research study on S-ketamine and its effects on patients undergoing a Modified Radical Mastectomy?
  2. What positive effects did the use of S-ketamine have on the patients’ recovery after the surgery?
  3. Did the use of S-ketamine have a lasting impact on the cognitive function recovery of the patients?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about radical mastectomy is to follow a proper post-operative care plan to aid in recovery. This may include taking prescribed pain medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider, performing recommended exercises or physical therapy, and avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities until cleared by your doctor. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare team.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended radical mastectomy are those with large or locally advanced breast tumors, those with inflammatory breast cancer, those with multiple tumors in one breast, those with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers), and those who have previously undergone radiation therapy to the chest. Additionally, patients who are not candidates for breast-conserving surgery due to the size or location of the tumor may also be recommended for radical mastectomy.

Timeline

Before the radical mastectomy:

  • Patients undergo a series of pre-operative appointments and tests to determine the extent of the cancer and plan for surgery.
  • They may meet with a surgeon, oncologist, and other healthcare professionals to discuss the procedure and potential risks.
  • Patients may undergo imaging tests, such as mammograms or MRI scans, to assess the size and location of the tumor.
  • A few days before surgery, patients may need to stop taking certain medications and follow specific dietary guidelines.
  • On the day of surgery, patients are typically admitted to the hospital and undergo the mastectomy procedure under general anesthesia.

After the radical mastectomy:

  • Immediately after surgery, patients are monitored closely in the recovery room for any complications or side effects from the anesthesia.
  • Patients may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort at the surgical site, which is managed with pain medications.
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be recommended to help regain strength and mobility in the affected arm and chest area.
  • Patients may need to follow a specific post-operative care plan, including wound care instructions and restrictions on activities.
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and oncologist are scheduled to monitor the healing process and discuss any further treatment options, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a radical mastectomy and why is it being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a radical mastectomy?
  3. How will the surgery impact my daily life, including physical activity, work, and self-care?
  4. What is the expected recovery timeline after a radical mastectomy?
  5. What pain management options will be available to me during and after the surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or surgical options that I should consider?
  7. Will I need additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, after the surgery?
  8. How will a radical mastectomy affect my risk of cancer recurrence?
  9. What are the long-term effects of a radical mastectomy on my physical and emotional health?
  10. Can you provide more information about the research on the use of S-ketamine for anesthesia during breast cancer surgery, and how it may benefit me specifically?

Reference

Authors: Zhang J, Jia D, Li W, Li X, Ma Q, Chen X. Journal: BMC Anesthesiol. 2023 Jun 20;23(1):214. doi: 10.1186/s12871-023-02161-6. PMID: 37340359