Our Summary

This research paper discusses the development of a less invasive method of breast cancer surgery, known as infra-radical mastectomy, which aims to improve quality of life and minimize psychological distress by preserving more of a woman’s physical appearance. The study was conducted from March 2015 to July 2017 on women with operable breast cancer who showed no signs of lymph node invasion. The new procedure involves a more careful dissection and removal of the breast, leaving more of the surrounding skin and fat tissue intact as compared to a traditional mastectomy. The study found that this method was successful in a majority of cases, with no residual invasive cancer found in the remaining tissue. However, patients with a certain type of cancer called ’extensive DCIS’ should not use this less invasive method. Further research is required to assess the long-term outcomes, cosmetic results, and the potential need for additional treatments like radiotherapy.

FAQs

  1. What is the infra-radical mastectomy method and how does it differ from a traditional mastectomy?
  2. Who are the ideal candidates for the infra-radical mastectomy method according to the research?
  3. What are the potential drawbacks or limitations of the infra-radical mastectomy method as mentioned in the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing a radical mastectomy to consider discussing with their healthcare provider the option of a less invasive procedure, such as infra-radical mastectomy, to potentially preserve more of their physical appearance and improve their quality of life. It is important for patients to weigh the benefits and risks of each surgical option and to make an informed decision based on their individual circumstances and preferences.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for radical mastectomy are those with larger tumors or extensive involvement of the breast tissue, as well as those with aggressive forms of breast cancer such as triple-negative or HER2-positive breast cancer. Additionally, patients with a strong family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 may also be recommended for a radical mastectomy to reduce their risk of recurrence. In some cases, patients who have previously undergone other types of breast cancer surgery and have experienced a recurrence may also be recommended for a radical mastectomy to remove any remaining cancerous tissue. Ultimately, the decision to undergo a radical mastectomy should be made in consultation with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers, taking into consideration the individual patient’s medical history, tumor characteristics, and personal preferences.

Timeline

Before radical mastectomy:

  • Patient receives a breast cancer diagnosis through imaging tests and a biopsy.
  • Patient consults with oncologists and surgeons to discuss treatment options.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing, such as blood work and imaging scans.
  • Surgery is scheduled and patient prepares for the procedure, which may include emotional and physical stress.

After radical mastectomy:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which involves the removal of the entire breast tissue, including skin, nipple, and lymph nodes.
  • Patient stays in the hospital for a few days to recover from the surgery.
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue post-surgery.
  • Patient may undergo additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, to further treat the cancer.
  • Patient undergoes follow-up appointments and monitoring to check for recurrence and assess overall health and well-being.
  • Patient may experience emotional and psychological challenges, such as body image issues and fear of cancer recurrence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of undergoing a radical mastectomy versus an infra-radical mastectomy?

  2. How will my recovery and post-operative care differ between a radical mastectomy and an infra-radical mastectomy?

  3. Will I still need to undergo radiation therapy or other treatments after an infra-radical mastectomy?

  4. How will an infra-radical mastectomy impact my physical appearance and body image compared to a radical mastectomy?

  5. Are there any specific criteria or factors that make a patient a good candidate for an infra-radical mastectomy?

  6. What is the success rate of an infra-radical mastectomy in terms of completely removing the cancerous tissue?

  7. How will an infra-radical mastectomy impact my risk of cancer recurrence compared to a radical mastectomy?

  8. Are there any potential long-term side effects or complications associated with an infra-radical mastectomy?

  9. How does the cost of an infra-radical mastectomy compare to a radical mastectomy, and will insurance typically cover this procedure?

  10. Are there any ongoing clinical trials or research studies investigating the efficacy and safety of infra-radical mastectomy for breast cancer patients?

Reference

Authors: Jossa V, Olivier F, Lifrange E, Crevecoeur A, Courtois A, Coibion M, Jerusalem G. Journal: Gland Surg. 2021 Jun;10(6):1931-1940. doi: 10.21037/gs-21-48. PMID: 34268077