Our Summary

This study looked at how to make a type of breast surgery called a lumpectomy more efficient and cost-effective. Traditionally, a large set of 98 surgical tools was used for these operations. However, the researchers noticed that many of the tools weren’t being used.

To solve this, the team asked surgical technicians to identify the essential tools for a lumpectomy. Breast surgeons then reviewed and finalized this list. They then converted three of the larger sets into smaller ones specifically for lumpectomies.

The new sets contained only 51 tools, which cut the cost of cleaning and sterilizing the tools in half, from around $50 to $26. When considering the 449 lumpectomies performed at the hospital in 2017, this equates to yearly savings of $10,763.

The new sets also weighed less (16 pounds instead of 27), which made them safer to handle and transport. The setup time for each surgery was also reduced from 7 minutes to 4, saving a total of 22.5 hours per year.

In conclusion, creating a smaller, specialized set of tools for breast lumpectomies can save money, time, and reduce physical strain on hospital staff.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of this study on lumpectomies?
  2. How did the creation of a smaller, specialized set of tools for lumpectomies impact the cost and efficiency of the procedure?
  3. How did the researchers identify the essential tools needed for a lumpectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lumpectomy is to ask about the tools and equipment being used during the surgery. By ensuring that the surgical team is using a specialized set of tools specifically for lumpectomies, the patient can have confidence in the efficiency and safety of the procedure. This can also potentially lead to cost savings for the hospital, which can benefit both the patient and the healthcare system as a whole.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended lumpectomy are those with early-stage breast cancer or benign breast lumps. Lumpectomy is generally recommended for patients with smaller tumors that have not spread to surrounding tissues. It is also an option for patients who prefer breast-conserving surgery over mastectomy. Lumpectomy is often followed by radiation therapy to ensure that any remaining cancer cells are destroyed.

Timeline

Before lumpectomy:

  • Patient undergoes mammogram or other imaging tests to diagnose breast cancer
  • Patient meets with surgeon to discuss treatment options, including lumpectomy
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative tests and screenings
  • Patient may receive instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting and medication guidelines

During lumpectomy:

  • Patient is given anesthesia to make them unconscious during the procedure
  • Surgeon removes the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue
  • Lymph nodes may be tested for cancer spread
  • Surgery typically takes a few hours

After lumpectomy:

  • Patient may stay in the hospital for a short period of time for recovery
  • Patient may experience pain, swelling, and bruising at the surgical site
  • Patient may need to wear a special bra or bandage to support the breast
  • Patient may need to take pain medication and antibiotics
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and discuss further treatment options, such as radiation therapy

Overall, lumpectomy is a common and effective treatment for early-stage breast cancer, and with proper care and follow-up, most patients recover well and go on to lead healthy lives.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How will using a specialized set of tools for my lumpectomy benefit me as a patient?
  2. Will using these specialized tools affect the quality or outcome of my surgery in any way?
  3. How will the cost savings from using a smaller set of tools impact my overall medical expenses?
  4. Will the reduced setup time for the surgery have any impact on the overall length of my procedure or recovery time?
  5. Are there any potential risks or drawbacks to using a smaller set of tools for my lumpectomy?
  6. How was the decision made to switch to a smaller set of tools for lumpectomies, and what research or evidence supports this change?
  7. Will the reduced weight of the tools used in my surgery have any impact on the safety or effectiveness of the procedure?
  8. How will the efficiency improvements from using a smaller set of tools impact the overall experience for both myself and the medical staff during my lumpectomy?

Reference

Authors: Malone E, Baldwin J, Richman J, Lancaster R, Krontiras H, Parker C. Journal: J Surg Res. 2019 Jan;233:32-35. doi: 10.1016/j.jss.2018.06.063. Epub 2018 Jul 27. PMID: 30502265