Articles tagged with Mastectomy
Experts warn that new drugs for advanced breast cancer are unaffordable and may lead to unequal treatment access worldwide. The consensus panel recommended prioritizing most effective treatments and using next-generation sequencing for personalized medicine.
Women undergoing mastectomy may experience emotional and physical challenges, including worse psychosocial outcomes and a lack of standardized approach to assess quality of life. Researchers emphasize the importance of developing a validated screening tool to prepare women for surgery.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and Society of Surgical Oncology jointly published a guideline outlining when post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) is appropriate based on new evidence. PMRT reduces cancer recurrence risk in patients with node-positive disease or high-risk features.
A new analysis suggests that preventive mastectomy is a cost-effective way to reduce the likelihood of developing breast cancer compared to breast screening and medication. Women aged 30 or above with a lifetime breast cancer risk of 35% or more may benefit from this treatment option.
A new study finds that risk-reducing mastectomy is cost-effective for women aged 30-55 with a lifetime breast cancer risk of 35% or higher. The findings have significant clinical implications, suggesting that RRM could expand access to the procedure beyond BRCA1/BRCA2/PALB2 pathogenic variant carriers.
A study documents elite-level strength training during active breast cancer treatment, showing rare retention of squat strength despite chemotherapy. LaShae Rolle, a competitive powerlifter and breast cancer survivor, completed the first-of-its-kind study, demonstrating the feasibility of high-intensity training when carefully managed.
This study evaluated the surgical outcomes of median sternotomy (MST) in treating intrathoracic tracheal malignancies, with MST providing superior surgical exposure and results in fewer complications. MST was found to preserve vascular integrity, protect the left recurrent laryngeal nerve, and achieve longer resectable tracheal lengths.
Researchers are conducting a clinical trial to find the optimal combination of pain management tools for patients undergoing mastectomy procedures. The study will enroll approximately 100 patients and examine various combinations of pectoralis nerve blocks, non-opioid analgesics, and administration methods.
A cohort study found a decrease in localized invasive breast cancer and regional invasive breast cancer since the 2009 guideline changes, but no decrease in advanced cancer stages. Further research is needed to understand these trends.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that older age is associated with small but significant increases in certain complications after breast reconstruction. Older women may be less satisfied with the appearance of their reconstructed breasts, but may have better psychologic adjustment.
Recent US data analysis reveals stabilization of breast reconstruction rates after mastectomy, with a decrease in disparities among racial and insurance groups. The study analyzed over 1.5 million patients from 2005 to 2017, finding that nearly one-third underwent immediate reconstruction, with a shift towards more equitable distribution.
A new study found that hypofractionation does not increase complications for patients with breast cancer who undergo mastectomy and plan breast reconstruction. The trial enrolled 898 patients and showed that reducing treatment time by nearly half is safe and effective, saving patients time and money.
A new online tool has been shown to reduce decisional conflict in women with breast cancer undergoing mastectomy, supporting informed decisions on immediate breast reconstruction. The study found that patients who used the tool felt better prepared for decision-making and had a lower rate of clinically significant decisional conflict.
Women with bilateral mastectomy have a greatly diminished risk of contralateral breast cancer, yet experience similar mortality rates as patients treated with lumpectomy or unilateral mastectomy. The study highlights the importance of considering long-term risks and benefits in breast cancer treatment decisions.
A recent study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that American Indian/Alaska Native women have consistently lower rates of breast reconstruction after mastectomy compared to non-Hispanic White women. The disparity persists despite an upward trend in reconstruction rates, with AI/AN women being nearly half less likel...
A study co-led by Prof. Kelly Metcalfe finds risk-reducing mastectomies significantly reduce breast cancer risk and death probability in women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic variant. The procedure reduces the risk of breast cancer by 80% and decreases mortality to less than 1%.
A study found that patients with breast cancer are more likely to choose distant hospitals for surgery based on factors such as age, ethnicity, and living location. The investigation highlights the potential for healthcare inequalities to worsen if policies do not address these disparities.
A systematic review has identified 29 primary risk factors associated with long-term arm morbidities following breast cancer treatments. The main risk factors include removal of lymph nodes, high body mass index, mastectomy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, infection, and trauma to the affected arm.
Researchers found a shorter course of radiation therapy provides equivalent protection against breast cancer recurrence and physical side-effects, but reduces life disruption and financial burden. Patients reported less burden on their time and finances, with improved quality of life.
A randomized study shows that shorter radiation therapy courses are just as effective in preventing cancer return and reducing side effects for patients with breast reconstruction. The accelerated treatment regimen saved patients time, money, and experienced fewer treatment breaks.
A survey study found that gender-affirming mastectomies result in low levels of decisional regret and high satisfaction among patients. This suggests that current validated instruments may not be suitable for assessing post-surgical outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Malaga develop a new therapy using manual techniques and stretching to reduce pain and improve mobility in women with axillary web syndrome after breast cancer. The therapy, consisting of 15 sessions, has shown significant results in reducing evolution time of lymphatic thrombi.
Researchers found that patients with two or three separate areas of breast cancer in the same breast can opt for lumpectomies followed by whole-breast radiation therapy instead of mastectomies, resulting in better patient satisfaction and cosmetic outcomes. The study also showed that preoperative MRI scans reduced local recurrence rates.
A new 3D-printed scaffold made of a dissolvable polymer is shown to create nipples that maintain long-lasting projection, unlike previous reconstruction approaches. The device has the potential to improve breast reconstruction results and could be available for women undergoing mastectomy in the near future.
A new study found that women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations have a cumulative risk of 49% developing any type of cancer after age 50. Risk-reducing surgeries like mastectomies and BSOs can lower this risk, but many women opt out despite elevated risk. Genetic testing is crucial for accurate risk assessment and personalized care.
The Cleveland Clinic has launched a phase 1b clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immune response of a preventive breast cancer vaccine in high-risk individuals who have undergone prophylactic mastectomy. The study aims to recruit 6-12 patients and is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.
A study found nearly one-fourth of breast cancer patients experience reconstructive burnout, characterized by incomplete or abandoned breast reconstruction. Risk factors include radiation therapy, higher body mass index, and tissue expander complications.
A recent study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reports low rates of recurrent breast cancer after nipple-sparing mastectomy, with a 3.33% per patient rate over 10 years. The study suggests good long-term cancer control with this surgical option.
A new study shows that the 'batwing' mastopexy technique can be safely performed simultaneously with immediate breast reconstruction, providing comparable complication rates and improved aesthetic outcomes. Women with larger breasts or ptosis can now consider nipple-sparing mastectomy without increased risk of complications.
A recent Oregon State University study found that a mindfulness-based intervention delivered via videoconference was a feasible treatment option for survivors of breast and gynecologic cancers. The pilot study showed that participants learned mindfulness exercises, gained insight into sexual interest, and appreciated the group's suppor...
Researchers have used a data-sharing innovation to categorise 16 uncertain BRCA variants as benign or likely benign, potentially allowing women with these variants to skip invasive surgeries. This could lead to thousands of people avoiding difficult treatments for no reason.
Researchers compared long-term quality-of-life outcomes in women with breast cancer treated with breast-conserving surgery and radiation therapy versus mastectomy and reconstruction without radiation therapy. Mastectomy and reconstruction was associated with lower overall quality of life, but not physical function or mental health.
Women with breast implants after mastectomy are at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease due to chemotherapy and radiation. Inaccuracies in cardiac imaging studies, such as echocardiography and nuclear tests, have been reported in some cases.
Women with breast cancer are at a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation and dying from heart-related issues within the first year. The condition was more common in women who did not receive surgery or radiation as their initial treatment.
A study published in Annals of Surgery found that gender-affirming mastectomies significantly improved mental health measures, body image, and self-confidence in transmasculine patients. The procedures also led to increased satisfaction with appearance and social functioning.
Risk-reducing mastectomy saves lives of women with hereditary or other risk factors, but also considers quality-of-life issues. Women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations have a very high lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.
A study by UCLA researchers found that 74% of women who forgo breast reconstruction after a mastectomy are satisfied with their outcome. Despite support concerns, women pointed to faster recovery and body image as reasons for choosing 'going flat'.
Researchers investigated quality of life among younger women after breast cancer surgery, finding differences in physical functioning and body image between mastectomy and breast conserving surgery. Anxiety and depressive symptoms also varied by surgical approach.
A new study found that US patients are less likely to undergo breast conserving therapy compared to European and Asian patients, with a higher rate of mastectomy. The study suggests that insurance coverage and costs may be factors influencing this difference.
A phase 2 clinical trial has demonstrated an effective alternative to mastectomy for breast cancer patients experiencing recurrence after initial lumpectomy and whole-breast radiation. The treatment involved a second lumpectomy followed by partial breast reirradiation, resulting in long-term cancer control and low toxic side effects.
Most UK mastectomies are advised for large tumours; standard hormone therapy and chemotherapy could reduce number of women needing surgery.
A Mayo Clinic study shows that less-invasive mastectomy is a safe option for more patients, including those with locally advanced cancer or surgical complication risk factors. The procedure's complications declined significantly between 2009 and 2017, and reconstruction success rates were high at one year after surgery.
A study found that younger breast cancer patients who underwent mastectomy reported lower breast satisfaction and poorer psychosocial and sexual well-being compared to those who had breast-conserving surgery. The researchers also found similar physical function across all groups.
A study of 561 young women with breast cancer found that those who underwent mastectomy scored lower in quality of life measures, including satisfaction with appearance, psychosocial well-being, and sexual well-being. Breast-conserving surgery was associated with better outcomes, regardless of whether one or both breasts were removed.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that free-flap breast reconstruction has generally good outcomes in women aged 65 or older. While age was associated with increased risks, these complications were partly related to the higher rates of medical risk factors among older women.
A new study finds that mastectomies do not completely eliminate the need for postoperative imaging and biopsy. For 10% to 15.5% of patients, subsequent imaging is required, and 6-8% undergo biopsy, with low malignancy rates.
A small clinical benefit was observed in reduced risk of dying from breast cancer in women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) treated with radiation plus lumpectomy. The absolute risk reduction was 0.27 percent, indicating that 370 women would need to be treated to save one life.
A new clinical trial has found that 92.9% of women with two or three sites of cancer in a single breast can undergo breast-conserving surgery, replacing mastectomy as the preferred treatment option for this condition.
Researchers found that women with autologous breast reconstruction had better satisfaction, quality of life, and sexual well-being two years post-surgery. However, nearly one-third of patients experienced complications, with failure rates significantly lower for autologous reconstruction.
Plastic surgeons are crucial in managing young women at high genetic risk of breast cancer due to BRCA gene mutations. These women have a low lifetime risk of breast cancer, only 1.5-3.4% by age 30, and may benefit from mastectomy, but the decision is complex and requires careful consideration.
A recent study analyzing breast tissue from 344 transmen found benign and malignant lesions in 48.3% of individuals. Invasive breast cancer was detected in just two samples, emphasizing the importance of thorough histopathological examination.
Women who underwent mastectomy without reconstruction underestimated their future quality of life, while those with immediate reconstruction overestimated it. The study highlights the importance of decision support for breast reconstruction, taking into account patients' expectations about well-being.
A new study reveals that women with breast cancer who received more aggressive treatments were more likely to experience disruptions in employment. Women who underwent bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction had nearly eight times the risk of missing over a month of work compared to those who underwent lumpectomy.
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that women who undergo a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction are 7.8 times more likely to miss work than those who opt for lumpectomy and radiation therapy.
A new study has found that trastuzumab treatment does not increase the risk of surgical site complications that require intervention after breast reconstruction. Immediate breast reconstruction may be possible for patients receiving trastuzumab alone, but those on combination targeted HER-2 treatment should delay surgery.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that attending surgeons can significantly influence patients' decisions to undergo contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) after a breast cancer diagnosis. The researchers surveyed over 7,800 women with stages 0-2 breast cancer and their attending surgeons, finding that surgeons' attitudes to...
A new study published in JAMA Surgery found that surgeons played a major role in determining whether patients receive aggressive breast cancer surgery. The study revealed that surgeons' attitudes towards breast conservation and CPM had a significant impact on the likelihood of patients receiving this procedure.
A two-stage approach to risk-reducing mastectomy, involving initial breast reduction and
A new study found that women with early-stage breast cancer are more likely to consider double mastectomy due to their decision-making habits and values. Researchers surveyed 2,362 women and discovered that those who were worried about making a bad decision and wanted to make their own choices were more likely to consider the aggressiv...
A new analysis shows that breast cancer prognoses have significantly improved for young women treated with breast conserving surgery between 1997 and 2010. The study found a dramatic reduction in breast cancer recurrences and deaths after the implementation of new diagnostic and treatment strategies in 2005.