Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study that looked at the changes in the size of the tumor area (LPC) during a type of radiation treatment (Hypo-RT) for breast cancer patients. Two different CT scans were taken: the first one (CT1) was used to plan the full breast radiation, and the second one (CT2) was used to plan the radiation boost for the LPC.

The study found that the LPC size was significantly smaller on the second scan as compared to the first scan. It also found that the average amount of radiation received by the heart and lungs was significantly reduced from the first to the second scan. There was also a decrease in the volume of tissue receiving 95%, 80% and 50% of the prescribed boost dose.

In simple terms, the study concluded that the size of the tumor area can change significantly during the course of the radiation treatment. Therefore, adapting the radiation boost plan during the treatment can help to reduce the exposure of healthy tissue to radiation.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of using two separate CT scans in the adaptive boost planning process for breast cancer patients?
  2. How does the volume of the lumpectomy cavity change during hypofractionated radiation?
  3. How does adaptive lumpectomy cavity boost planning help in reducing normal tissue exposure during treatment?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lumpectomy is to discuss the option of adaptive boost planning during radiation therapy. This can help reduce normal tissue exposure and improve the effectiveness of treatment. It is important to have regular follow-up appointments and imaging studies to monitor any changes in the lumpectomy cavity volume.

Suitable For

Patients with early-stage breast cancer who are suitable candidates for breast-conserving surgery are typically recommended lumpectomy. Lumpectomy may also be recommended for patients with larger tumors who have had a good response to neoadjuvant therapy. Additionally, lumpectomy may be recommended for patients with multiple tumors in the same breast who wish to preserve their breast tissue.

Timeline

  • Before lumpectomy: Patient undergoes initial consultation with surgeon to discuss treatment options and potential risks. Patient may undergo imaging tests such as mammogram or ultrasound to determine the size and location of the tumor. Surgery is scheduled and patient is provided with pre-operative instructions.

  • Day of lumpectomy: Patient arrives at hospital or surgical center and undergoes pre-operative preparation. Lumpectomy is performed under general anesthesia. After surgery, patient is monitored in recovery room before being discharged home.

  • After lumpectomy: Patient may experience pain, swelling, and bruising at the surgical site. Follow-up appointments are scheduled with surgeon to monitor healing progress. Pathology report is reviewed to determine if all cancerous tissue was removed. Patient may undergo radiation therapy as part of post-operative treatment plan. Patient may also be referred to oncologist for further treatment options such as chemotherapy or hormone therapy. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid in recovery and restore range of motion in arm. Patient continues to have regular follow-up appointments to monitor for recurrence or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about lumpectomy include:

  1. What is the purpose of a lumpectomy in my treatment plan?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a lumpectomy?
  3. How will the size of my lumpectomy cavity be monitored and measured during and after radiation therapy?
  4. Will I need any additional imaging or scans to assess the effectiveness of the lumpectomy?
  5. How will the radiation therapy be targeted to the lumpectomy cavity, and what are the dosimetric benefits of adaptive boost planning?
  6. What are the potential side effects of radiation therapy on normal tissues, and how can they be minimized?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments to monitor the lumpectomy cavity and my overall treatment progress?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after a lumpectomy and radiation therapy?
  9. What are the chances of the lumpectomy cavity changing in size during hypofractionated radiation, and how will this be managed?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider in addition to or instead of lumpectomy and radiation therapy?

Reference

Authors: Sayan M, Yehia ZA, Jan I, Gupta A, Vergalasova I, Reviello M, Kumar S, Haffty B, Ohri N. Journal: Anticancer Res. 2022 Jan;42(1):53-57. doi: 10.21873/anticanres.15456. PMID: 34969708