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Kim HJ, Shin DM, Cho J, Lee K, Lee J, Park HS. Use of Advanced Energy Devices and Fiberoptic Retractors in Single-Incision Breast-Conserving Surgery for Breast Cancer. Yonsei Med J 2024; 65:511-518. [PMID: 39193759 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2023.0348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The use of advanced energy devices for mastectomy and axillary lymph node dissection can reduce perioperative blood loss, seroma formation, and drainage duration/volume. Retraction using fiberoptic retractors can help visualize deep and narrow surgical fields. We aimed to compare the postoperative outcomes between single-incision breast-conserving surgery (SIBCS) and conventional breast-conserving surgery (CBCS) with axillary staging using advanced energy devices and conventional equipment, respectively. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 244 patients who underwent BCS with axillary surgery between March 2018 and September 2019 at Severance Hospital. The patients were grouped based on the device used to aid in axillary staging: CBCS group (n=117) used conventional electrocautery; and SIBCS group (n=127) used advanced energy devices and fiberoptic retractors. The two groups were compared for postoperative outcomes. RESULTS The mean patient age was 55.9 and 53.1 years in the CBCS and SIBCS groups, respectively. Incision size was significantly smaller in the SIBCS group than in the CBCS group (6.3±2.1 cm vs. 7.5±2.5 cm, p=0.044). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of operating time (126.0±40.0 min vs. 127.0±63.0 min, p=0.828), operative blood loss (11.0±31.0 mL vs. 7.0±18.0 mL, p=0.100), drainage duration (7.0±3.0 d vs. 8.0±4.0 d, p=0.288), and complications (1.70% vs. 2.36%, p=0.523). CONCLUSION Using advanced energy devices for SIBCS with axillary staging reduced incision size and provided better cosmetic outcomes compared to those using the conventional method. Advanced energy devices may offer better surgical outcomes in patients who undergo BCS with axillary staging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Jin Kim
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong-Min Shin
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Junho Cho
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwanbum Lee
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeea Lee
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyung Seok Park
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Connors C, Al-Hilli Z. De-escalation of Axillary Surgery After Neoadjuvant Therapy. Clin Breast Cancer 2024; 24:385-391. [PMID: 38735808 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Surgical de-escalation of the axilla has evolved over the past 28 years since the emergence of sentinel lymph node surgery. Well-documented complications of the once standard of care axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), including lymphedema, led physician scientists towards a progressive push to study and incorporate less invasive techniques in the axilla. Many trials have justified oncologic safety of axillary de-escalation in patients who are spared neoadjuvant treatment. The applicability in the neoadjuvant setting, however, is less clear and axillary surgical approaches in this patient population have evolved at a slower pace. This review aims to analyze current data in axillary management for patients undergoing neoadjuvant treatment and to discuss current surgical approaches based on nodal pathologic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey Connors
- Breast Center, Integrated Surgical Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Zahraa Al-Hilli
- Breast Center, Integrated Surgical Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
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Heidinger M, Weber WP. Axillary Surgery for Breast Cancer in 2024. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1623. [PMID: 38730576 PMCID: PMC11083357 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Axillary surgery for patients with breast cancer (BC) in 2024 is becoming increasingly specific, moving away from the previous 'one size fits all' radical approach. The goal is to spare morbidity whilst maintaining oncologic safety. In the upfront surgery setting, a first landmark randomized controlled trial (RCT) on the omission of any surgical axillary staging in patients with unremarkable clinical examination and axillary ultrasound showed non-inferiority to sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy (SLNB). The study population consisted of 87.8% postmenopausal patients with estrogen receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative BC. Patients with clinically node-negative breast cancer and up to two positive SLNs can safely be spared axillary dissection (ALND) even in the context of mastectomy or extranodal extension. In patients enrolled in the TAXIS trial, adjuvant systemic treatment was shown to be similar with or without ALND despite the loss of staging information. After neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT), targeted lymph node removal with or without SLNB showed a lower false-negative rate to determine nodal pathological complete response (pCR) compared to SLNB alone. However, oncologic outcomes do not appear to differ in patients with nodal pCR determined by either one of the two concepts, according to a recently published global, retrospective, real-world study. Real-world studies generally have a lower level of evidence than RCTs, but they are feasible quickly and with a large sample size. Another global real-world study provides evidence that even patients with residual isolated tumor cells can be safely spared from ALND. In general, few indications for ALND remain. Three randomized controlled trials are ongoing for patients with clinically node-positive BC in the upfront surgery setting and residual disease after NACT. Pending the results of these trials, ALND remains indicated in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Heidinger
- Breast Surgery, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Walter P. Weber
- Breast Surgery, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
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Giridhar P, Pradhan S, Pujari L, Singh P, Shinghal A, Khandelwal C, Mukherjee C, Tripathi M, Shukla V, M V M, Choudary Z, Gupta A. Is FAST FORWARD the Way Forward in Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer - Learnings From the COVID Pandemic. Clin Breast Cancer 2024; 24:e116-e125. [PMID: 38105131 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2023.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low middle-income countries (LMICs), including India, have paucity of external beam radiotherapy (RT) machines leading to prolonged wait times for RT. Delay in delivery of RT has been shown to adversely affect outcomes in locally advanced breast cancer (LABC). With the availability of results of multiple randomized controlled trials, hypofractionated RT delivered over 3 to 4 weeks became the standard of care in breast cancer RT. METHODS We conducted a retrospective audit of 172 LABC patients treated with ultrahypofractionated adjuvant RT (radiotherapy completed in 1 week) during the COVID pandemic. Log rank and Cox-regression model used for univariate and multi-variate analyses. RESULTS No patient developed grade 3 esophagitis. Grade 2 esophagitis requiring short term narcotic analgesics was seen in 12 (6.9%) patients. Grade 2 or higher toxicity peaked between 2 and 3 weeks after RT. The estimated 2 and 3- year recurrence free survival (RFS) for the cohort is 87.1 % and 81.4 %, respectively. The estimated 2 and 3-year overall survival for the cohort is 95% and 91.3%. On multivariate analysis, presence of extra-nodal extension was found to be an independent factor associated with worse RFS (P = .028). CONCLUSIONS FAST FORWARD protocol RT in LABC appears well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashanth Giridhar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Satyajit Pradhan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Lincoln Pujari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Prarabdh Singh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhishek Shinghal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Chaturbhaj Khandelwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Chandrima Mukherjee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mayank Tripathi
- Department of Surgical Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Varun Shukla
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Manikandan M V
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Zacchariah Choudary
- Department of Onco-pathology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anuj Gupta
- Department of Medical Oncology, MPMMCC/ HBCH, Tata Memorial Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Luțenco V, Rebegea L, Beznea A, Tocu G, Moraru M, Mihailov OM, Ciuntu BM, Luțenco V, Stanculea FC, Mihailov R. Innovative Surgical Approaches That Improve Individual Outcomes in Advanced Breast Cancer. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:555-560. [PMID: 38577150 PMCID: PMC10992669 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s447837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in women and the second cause in the general population. The incidence has increased over time. Women in developing countries often present at an advanced stage where initial surgery is not feasible. Short disease-free intervals, the number of metastatic organs and liver metastasis were consistently associated with poor overall survival. Surgery is an integral part of the therapeutic plan for locally advanced breast cancer. The integration of surgical care into the management of patients with advanced cancer has changed substantially with the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Also, more recently, neoadjuvant endocrine therapy and targeted therapies offer new opportunities to downsize the tumor burden and transform the role of surgery for this population from palliation to largely curative intent. Innovative surgical approach to the primary tumor in metastatic disease may provide survival benefits and local control in some patients. Similar to systemic therapy, surgical therapy for secondary dissemination should be considered in certain cases for improved individual outcomes. Advances in reconstructive techniques have improved the quality of life of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerii Luțenco
- Surgery I Clinic, Emergency Hospital “Sf. Ap. Andrei”, Galați, Romania
| | - Laura Rebegea
- Oncology and Radiotherapy Clinic, Emergency Hospital “Sf. Ap. Andrei”, Galați, Romania
- “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galati, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Galați, Romania
| | - Adrian Beznea
- Surgery I Clinic, Emergency Hospital “Sf. Ap. Andrei”, Galați, Romania
- “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galati, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Galați, Romania
| | - George Tocu
- “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galati, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Galați, Romania
| | - Monica Moraru
- “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galati, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Galați, Romania
| | - Oana Mariana Mihailov
- “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galati, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Galați, Romania
| | | | - Verginia Luțenco
- Clinical Children Emergency Hospital “Sf. Ioan”, Galați, Romania
| | | | - Raul Mihailov
- Surgery I Clinic, Emergency Hospital “Sf. Ap. Andrei”, Galați, Romania
- “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galati, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Galați, Romania
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Wong LY, Kapula N, He H, Guenthart BA, Vitzthum LK, Horst K, Liou DZ, Backhus LM, Lui NS, Berry MF, Shrager JB, Elliott IA. Risk of developing subsequent primary lung cancer after receiving radiation for breast cancer. JTCVS OPEN 2023; 16:919-928. [PMID: 38204675 PMCID: PMC10775166 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjon.2023.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Background Radiotherapy (RT) is integral to breast cancer treatment, especially in the current era that emphasizes breast conservation. The aim of our study was to determine the incidence of subsequent primary lung cancer after RT exposure for breast cancer over a time span of 3 decades to quantify this risk over time as modern oncologic treatment continues to evolve. Methods The SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) database was queried from 1988 to 2014 for patients diagnosed with nonmetastatic breast cancer. Patients who subsequently developed primary lung cancer were identified. Multivariable regression modeling was performed to identify independent factors associated with the development of lung cancer stratified by follow up intervals of 5 to 9 years, 10 to 15 years, and >15 years after breast cancer diagnosis. Results Of the 612,746 patients who met our inclusion criteria, 319,014 (52%) were irradiated. primary lung cancer developed in 5556 patients (1.74%) in the RT group versus 4935 patients (1.68%) in the non-RT group. In a multivariable model stratified by follow-up duration, the overall HR of developing subsequent ipsilateral lung cancer in the RT group was 1.14 (P = .036) after 5 to 9 years of follow-up, 1.28 (P = .002) after 10 to 15 years of follow-up, and 1.30 (P = .014) after >15 years of follow-up. The HR of contralateral lung cancer was not increased at any time interval. Conclusions The increased risk of developing a primary lung cancer secondary to RT exposure for breast cancer is much lower than previously published. Modern RT techniques may have contributed to the improved risk profile, and this updated study is important for counseling and surveillance of breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lye-Yeng Wong
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
| | - Ntemena Kapula
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
| | - Hao He
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
| | - Brandon A. Guenthart
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
| | - Lucas K. Vitzthum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
| | - Kathleen Horst
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
| | - Douglas Z. Liou
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
| | - Leah M. Backhus
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif
| | - Natalie S. Lui
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
| | - Mark F. Berry
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif
| | - Joseph B. Shrager
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif
| | - Irmina A. Elliott
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, Calif
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Ionică M, Ilina RȘ, Neagoe OC. Ultrasound Pretreatment Lymph Node Evaluation in Early-Stage Breast Cancer: Should We Biopsy High Suspicion Nodes? Clin Pract 2023; 13:1532-1540. [PMID: 38131683 PMCID: PMC10742685 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13060134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the growing incidence of breast cancer, efficient and correct staging is essential for further treatment decisions. Axillary ultrasound (US) remains the most common method for regional nodal involvement assessment. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether high-risk US features can accurately predict axillary lymph node metastasis. METHODS A total of 150 early-stage breast cancer patients (T1 or T2) were prospectively included in the study. Based on axillary US, patients were classified as normal, low-risk, or high-risk, with all patients in the low-risk and high-risk groups undergoing fine-needle aspiration (FNAB) and core-needle biopsies. RESULTS For the low-risk US group, a lower prediction rate of axillary nodal metastasis was achieved than for the group with high-risk features, recording a sensitivity of 66.6% vs. 89.2%, a specificity of 57.1% vs. 100%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 26.6% vs. 100%, a negative predictive value (NPV) of 88% for both groups, and an accuracy of 58.9% vs. 94%, respectively. FNAB resulted in more false-negative results compared to core-needle biopsy in both low-risk and high-risk US groups. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that high-risk US features can predict axillary lymph node metastasis with high accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Ionică
- Second Clinic of General Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Emergency Clinical Municipal Hospital, 300079 Timișoara, Romania; (R.Ș.I.); (O.C.N.)
- Second Discipline of Surgical Semiology, First Department of Surgery, ”Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Breast Surgery Research Center, ”Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300079 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Răzvan Ștefan Ilina
- Second Clinic of General Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Emergency Clinical Municipal Hospital, 300079 Timișoara, Romania; (R.Ș.I.); (O.C.N.)
- Second Discipline of Surgical Semiology, First Department of Surgery, ”Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Breast Surgery Research Center, ”Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300079 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Octavian Constantin Neagoe
- Second Clinic of General Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Emergency Clinical Municipal Hospital, 300079 Timișoara, Romania; (R.Ș.I.); (O.C.N.)
- Second Discipline of Surgical Semiology, First Department of Surgery, ”Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Breast Surgery Research Center, ”Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300079 Timișoara, Romania
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Noguchi M, Inokuchi M, Yokoi-Noguchi M, Morioka E, Haba Y. Conservative Axillary Surgery May Prevent Arm Lymphedema without Increasing Axillary Recurrence in the Surgical Management of Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5353. [PMID: 38001613 PMCID: PMC10670757 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) has been associated with postoperative morbidities, including arm lymphedema, shoulder dysfunction, and paresthesia. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy emerged as a method to assess axillary nodal status and possibly obviate the need for ALND in patients with clinically node-negative (cN0) breast cancer. The majority of breast cancer patients are eligible for SLN biopsy only, so ALND can be avoided. However, there are subsets of patients in whom ALND cannot be eliminated. ALND is still needed in patients with three or more positive SLNs or those with gross extranodal or matted nodal disease. Moreover, ALND has conventionally been performed to establish local control in clinically node-positive (cN+) patients with a heavy axillary tumor burden. The sole method to avoid ALND is through neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Recently, various forms of conservative axillary surgery have been developed in order to minimize arm lymphedema without increasing axillary recurrence. In the era of effective multimodality therapy, conventional ALND may not be necessary in either cN0 or cN+ patients. Further studies with a longer follow-up period are needed to determine the safety of conservative axillary surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masakuni Noguchi
- Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Breast Center, Kanazawa Medical University Hospital, Daigaku-1-1, Uchinada, Kahoku 920-0293, Ishikawa, Japan; (M.I.); (M.Y.-N.); (E.M.); (Y.H.)
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Raymond J, Valvassori L, Darsaut TE. Understanding the role of randomization in clinical research and practice. Neurochirurgie 2023; 69:101492. [PMID: 37742489 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2023.101492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The scientific role randomization plays in clinical research is universally recognized, but poorly understood. In stark contrast, the ethical role randomization plays in the proper care of patients in the presence of uncertainty has been almost completely ignored. METHODS We review the introduction of randomization in the design of experiments, its first use in Britain, and its essential role in analysis of statistical results. We also review Thomas Chalmers' argument from 1975 that showed the ethical role randomization can play in the care of patients. We discuss how Chalmers' vision can be generalized to all contexts of clinical uncertainty. DISCUSSION Randomization is not only essential to the validity of statistical tests, it is also the best way to learn from experience. Although Chalmers' admonition to 'Randomize the first patient' pertained to the use of innovations, the notion that randomized allocation can be done in the best interest of patients is generalizable to all medical or surgical interventions that have yet to be proven beneficial, opening the perspective that care research can be integrated into practice in the best medical interest of patients. CONCLUSION Randomized allocation plays crucial scientific and ethical roles both in research and practice. It is the most efficient way to learn from experience. Prior to this gain in knowledge, it is the way to optimize care in the presence of uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Raymond
- Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | | | - Tim E Darsaut
- University of Alberta Hospital, Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Mackenzie Health Sciences Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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10
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Heidinger M, Maggi N, Dutilh G, Mueller M, Eller RS, Loesch JM, Schwab FD, Kurzeder C, Weber WP. Use of sentinel lymph node biopsy in elderly patients with breast cancer - 10-year experience from a Swiss university hospital. World J Surg Oncol 2023; 21:176. [PMID: 37287038 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-023-03062-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Choosing Wisely initiative recommended the omission of routine sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in patients ≥ 70 years of age, with clinically node-negative, early stage, hormone receptor (HR) positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her2) negative breast cancer in August 2016. Here, we assess the adherence to this recommendation in a Swiss university hospital. METHODS We conducted a retrospective single center cohort study from a prospectively maintained database. Patients ≥ 18 years of age with node-negative breast cancer were treated between 05/2011 and 03/2022. The primary outcome was the percentage of patients in the Choosing Wisely target group who underwent SLNB before and after the initiative went live. Statistical significance was tested using chi-squared test for categorical and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests for continuous variables. RESULTS In total, 586 patients met the inclusion criteria with a median follow-up of 2.7 years. Of these, 163 were ≥ 70 years of age and 79 were eligible for treatment according to the Choosing Wisely recommendations. There was a trend toward a higher rate of SLNB (92.7% vs. 75.0%, p = 0.07) after the Choosing Wisely recommendations were published. In patients ≥ 70 years with invasive disease, fewer received adjuvant radiotherapy after omission of SLNB (6.2% vs. 64.0%, p < 0.001), without differences concerning adjuvant systemic therapy. Both short-term and long-term complication rates after SLNB were low, without differences between elderly patients and those < 70 years. CONCLUSIONS Choosing Wisely recommendations did not result in a decreased use of SLNB in the elderly at a Swiss university hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Heidinger
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Universitätsspital Basel, Spitalstrasse 21, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Nadia Maggi
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gilles Dutilh
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Ruth S Eller
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Julie M Loesch
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fabienne D Schwab
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Kurzeder
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Walter P Weber
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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11
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Beck AC, Morrow M. Axillary lymph node dissection: Dead or still alive? Breast 2023; 69:469-475. [PMID: 36702672 PMCID: PMC10300611 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Although sentinel lymph node biopsy is now the primary method of axillary staging and is therapeutic for patients with limited nodal disease, axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) is still necessary for staging in groups where sentinel lymph node biopsy has not been proven to be accurate and to maintain local control in those with a heavy axillary tumor burden. Additionally, newer approaches to systemic therapy tailored to risk level sometimes necessitate knowledge of the number of involved axillary nodes which can only be obtained with ALND. Ongoing trials will address whether there are additional circumstances where radiotherapy can replace ALND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C Beck
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| | - Monica Morrow
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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12
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Freitas GBD, Mota BS, Maesaka JY, Pinheiro CC, de Lima LGCA, Soares JM, Baracat EC, Filassi JR. Measurement of extracapsular extension in sentinel lymph node as a possible predictor of residual axillary disease in breast cancer. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2023; 78:100216. [PMID: 37201303 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinsp.2023.100216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of Extracapsular Extension (ECE) in the Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) is still a doubt in the literature. Some studies suggest that the presence of ECE may be related to a greater number of positive axillary lymph nodes which could impact Disease Free Survival (DFS) and Overall Survival (OS). This study searches for the clinical significance of the ECE. METHODS Retrospective cohort comparing the presence or absence of ECE in T1-2 invasive breast cancer with positive SLNB. All cases treated surgically at the Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo (ICESP) between 2009 and 2013 were analyzed. All patients with axillary disease in SLNB underwent AD. OUTCOMES Identify the association between the presence and length of ECE and additional axillary positive lymph nodes, OS and DFS between both groups. RESULTS 128 patients with positive SLNB were included, and 65 had ECE. The mean metastasis size of 0.62 (SD = 0.59) mm at SLNB was related to the presence of ECE (p < 0.008). The presence of ECE was related to a higher mean of positive sentinel lymph nodes, 3.9 (± 4.8) vs. 2.0 (± 2.1), p = 0.001. The median length of follow-up was 115 months. The OS and DFS rates had no differences between the groups. CONCLUSION The presence of ECE was associated with additional positive axillary lymph nodes in this study. Therefore, the OS and DFS were similar in both groups after 10 years of follow-up. It is necessary for additional studies to define the importance of AD when SLNB with ECE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Boufelli de Freitas
- Setor de Mastologia da Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetricia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251; 4o andar Secretária Cirúrgica, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Bruna Salani Mota
- Setor de Mastologia da Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetricia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251; 4o andar Secretária Cirúrgica, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil.
| | - Jonathan Yugo Maesaka
- Setor de Mastologia da Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetricia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251; 4o andar Secretária Cirúrgica, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Cintia Cardoso Pinheiro
- Setor de Mastologia da Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetricia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251; 4o andar Secretária Cirúrgica, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Luiz Guilherme Cernaglia Aureliano de Lima
- Setor de Mastologia da Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetricia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251; 4o andar Secretária Cirúrgica, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - José Maria Soares
- Setor de Mastologia da Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetricia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251; 4o andar Secretária Cirúrgica, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Edmund Chada Baracat
- Setor de Mastologia da Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetricia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251; 4o andar Secretária Cirúrgica, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Filassi
- Setor de Mastologia da Disciplina de Ginecologia do Departamento de Obstetricia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251; 4o andar Secretária Cirúrgica, São Paulo, SP 01246-000, Brazil
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13
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Heidinger M, Knauer M, Tausch C, Weber WP. Tailored axillary surgery - A novel concept for clinically node positive breast cancer. Breast 2023; 69:281-289. [PMID: 36922305 PMCID: PMC10034500 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2023.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Axillary surgery in patients with breast cancer has been a history of de-escalation; however, surgery for clinically node-positive breast cancer remained at the dogmatic level of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). In these patients, currently the only way to avoid ALND is neoadjuvant systemic treatment (NST) with nodal pathologic complete response (pCR) as diagnosed by selective lymph node removal. However, pCR rates are highly dependent on tumor biology, with luminal tumors being most present yet showing the lowest pCR rates. Therefore, the TAXIS trial is investigating whether in clinically node-positive patients, either with residual disease after NST or in the upfront surgical setting, ALND can be safely omitted. All patients undergo tailored axillary surgery (TAS), which includes removal of the biopsied and clipped node, the sentinel lymph nodes as well as all palpably suspicious nodes, turning a clinically positive axilla into a clinically negative. Feasibility of TAS was recently confirmed in the first pre-specified TAXIS substudy. TAS is followed by axillary radiotherapy to treat any remaining nodal disease. Disease-free survival is the primary endpoint of this non-inferiority trial, and morbidity as well as quality of life are the main secondary endpoints, with ALND being known for having a relevant negative impact on both. Currently, 663 of 1500 patients were randomized; accrual completion is projected for 2025. The TAXIS trial stands out in including clinically node-positive patients in both the neoadjuvant and upfront surgery setting, thereby investigating surgical de-escalation at the far-end of the risk spectrum of patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Heidinger
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Knauer
- Breast Center Eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | | | - Walter P Weber
- Breast Center, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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14
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Clinical Trials in Breast Cancer. Surg Clin North Am 2023; 103:17-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.suc.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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15
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Al-Rashdan A, Deban M, Quan ML, Cao JQ. Locoregional Management of Breast Cancer: A Chronological Review. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:4647-4664. [PMID: 35877229 PMCID: PMC9321012 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29070369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Locoregional management of breast cancer is founded on evidence generated over a vast time period, much longer than the career span of many practicing physicians. Oncologists rely on specific patient and tumour characteristics to recommend modern-day treatments. However, some of this information may not have been available during prior periods in which the evidence was generated. For example, the comprehensive Early Breast Cancer Trialists’ Collaborative Group (EBCTCG) meta-analyses published in the 2000s typically included older trials accruing patients between the 1960s and 1980s. This raises some uncertainty about whether conclusions from studies conducted in prior eras are as relevant or applicable to modern-day patients and treatments. Reviewing the chronological order and details of the evidence can be beneficial to understanding these nuances. This review discusses the evolution of locoregional management through some key clinical trials. We aim to highlight the time period in which the evidence was generated and emphasize the 10-year outcomes for the comparability of results. Evidence supporting surgical management of the breast and axilla, as well as details of radiotherapy are discussed briefly for all stages of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla Al-Rashdan
- Dalhousie University School of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1V7, Canada;
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (M.D.); (M.L.Q.)
| | - Melina Deban
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (M.D.); (M.L.Q.)
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 29 St. NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada
| | - May Lynn Quan
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (M.D.); (M.L.Q.)
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 29 St. NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Q. Cao
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (M.D.); (M.L.Q.)
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 29 St. NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +1-403-521-3196; Fax: +1-403-283-1651
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16
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Matar R, Barrio AV, Sevilimedu V, Le T, Heerdt A, Morrow M, Tadros A. Can We Successfully De-Escalate Axillary Surgery in Women Aged ≥ 70 Years with Ductal Carcinoma in Situ or Early-Stage Breast Cancer Undergoing Mastectomy? Ann Surg Oncol 2022; 29:2263-2272. [PMID: 34994896 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-11140-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Omission of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in older women with clinically node-negative, hormone receptor-positive (HR+) early-stage breast cancer undergoing lumpectomy is accepted, given established low rates of regional recurrence. The safety of omitting SLNB in women undergoing mastectomy is unknown and may differ depending on extent of breast disease and variation in radiotherapy use. PATIENTS AND METHODS From 2006 to 2018, 123 cTis and 328 cT1-2 HR+/HER2- tumors from 410 women aged ≥ 70 years who underwent mastectomy and SLNB were included (41 bilateral cases). The rate of nodal positivity and effect of nodal positivity on adjuvant therapy use were examined. RESULTS Median age was 74 years; 21% of patients had positive sentinel lymph nodes, 7% had micrometastases, and 14% had macrometastases. Of cases of cTis tumors, 31% were upstaged to invasive carcinoma; 1% had macrometastases. Fewer cases of cT1 than cT2 tumors had macrometastases [13% (26/200) versus 29% (37/128); p < 0.001]. Eight percent of patients with pT1 tumors (18/228) and 27% of patients with pT2 tumors (30/113) received chemotherapy. Most patients with pT1, pN1 disease (78%; 25/32) did not receive chemotherapy. Rates of locoregional recurrence were similar between patients with cT1 or cT2 tumors with and without nodal metastases (median follow-up, 4.5 years). CONCLUSIONS Women aged ≥ 70 years with cTis and cT1N0 HR+/HER2- tumors who underwent mastectomy had low rates of nodal positivity, similar to rates reported for lumpectomy. Given this and the RxPONDER results, omission of SLNB may be considered, as findings are unlikely to alter adjuvant therapy recommendations.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Axilla/pathology
- Axilla/surgery
- Breast Neoplasms/metabolism
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Breast Neoplasms/surgery
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/pathology
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/surgery
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/pathology
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/surgery
- Female
- Humans
- Mastectomy/methods
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/pathology
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/surgery
- Receptor, ErbB-2/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Estrogen/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Progesterone/biosynthesis
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Matar
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrea V Barrio
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Varadan Sevilimedu
- Biostatistics Service, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tiana Le
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexandra Heerdt
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Monica Morrow
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Audree Tadros
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Abstract
Dr. Bernard Fisher (1918-2019) was an early proponent of evidence-based medicine using the mechanism of prospective, multicenter, randomized clinical trials to test biological and clinical hypotheses. In this article, I trace how his early scientific work in striving to understand the nature of cancer metastasis through animal experiments led to a new, testable, clinical hypothesis: that surgery to remove only the tumor and a small amount of tissue around it was as effective as the more disfiguring operations that were then the standard treatment. Fisher's work with the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) using large, randomized clinical trials to demonstrate the veracity of this hypothesis led to a new paradigm in which the emphasis was placed on how systemic therapies used at an early stage of disease could effectively eradicate breast cancer for many patients. This new therapeutic approach led to the successful development of new treatments, many of which are widely used today. Ultimately, the new paradigm led to successfully preventing breast cancer in women who were at high risk for the disease but who had not yet been diagnosed with the disease. Throughout his entire career, Fisher championed the use of large prospective, randomized clinical trials despite criticism from many in the medical community who strongly criticized his use of randomization as a mechanism for testing clinical hypotheses. The approach he and the NSABP employed is still considered to be the highest standard of evidence in conducting clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stewart Anderson
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health - Biostatistics, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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18
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Management of Locally Advanced Breast Cancer. Breast Cancer 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-16-4546-4_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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19
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Jatoi I, Kunkler IH. Omission of sentinel node biopsy for breast cancer: Historical context and future perspectives on a modern controversy. Cancer 2021; 127:4376-4383. [PMID: 34614216 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
For older patients with clinically lymph node-negative breast cancer who have estrogen receptor-positive tumors and are treated with tamoxifen, randomized trials comparing axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) versus no ALND show that the omission of ALND improves patient quality of life and has no adverse effects on mortality. These results have served to justify sentinel node biopsy (SNB) omission in selected older patients with breast cancer. More recently, clinical trials were launched to assess SNB omission in younger patients, with recurrence and survival as the primary outcomes of interest. Three important considerations serve as the basis for these ongoing trials. First, it is assumed that SNB omission will improve patient quality of life, although, to date, there is no level I evidence to support this assumption. Second, axillary surgery has never been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality, but it does reduce the risk of axillary recurrences, although adjuvant systemic therapy and radiotherapy also reduce these recurrence risks. Finally, nodal status is losing importance as a guide for adjuvant systemic therapy decision making because these decisions are now increasingly predicated on tumor biomarkers and gene profiling, but it is gaining importance for adjuvant radiotherapy decision making. Because quality-of-life considerations are the primary motivation for abandoning SNB, there is a need for randomized trials comparing SNB versus no SNB/no axillary surgery, with quality of life as the primary end point (level I evidence). Moreover, suitable alternatives to guide adjuvant radiotherapy decision making will require validation before SNB omission can be justified for patients of all ages who have clinically node-negative breast cancer. LAY SUMMARY: In this review article, the authors provide a brief historical overview of the role of axillary surgery in breast cancer management and discuss additional studies and ramifications that should be considered before abandoning the sentinel node biopsy (SNB) procedure. Specifically, there is a need for level I evidence demonstrating that omission of the SNB procedure will improve patient quality of life and a need to validate suitable alternatives to SNB as a guide for adjuvant radiotherapy decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismail Jatoi
- Division of Surgical Oncology and Endocrine Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Ian H Kunkler
- Edinburgh Cancer Research Center, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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20
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To NH, Hersant B, Chaffai I, Kalsoum S, Gautheron V, Ghith S, Grellier N, Belkacemi Y. Clinical significance of internal mammary lymph node incidentally detected during free-flap breast reconstruction: Case report and systematic review of the literature. CURRENT PROBLEMS IN CANCER: CASE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpccr.2021.100078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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21
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Sachs TE. Too Many or Too Few? How Many Lymph Nodes Are Enough? Ann Surg Oncol 2021; 29:1496-1497. [PMID: 34677725 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-10947-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Teviah E Sachs
- Section of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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22
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Goel A, Agarwal VK, Nayak V, Yogsrivas R, Gulia A. Surgical Management of Locoregional Recurrence in Breast Cancer. Indian J Surg Oncol 2021; 12:616-623. [PMID: 34658592 DOI: 10.1007/s13193-021-01342-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Locoregional recurrences from breast cancer represent a heterogeneous group of disease that poses a therapeutic challenge and needs a multidisciplinary team management. The incidence of local recurrence after breast conservation surgery ranges from 10 to 22% and 5-15% after mastectomy at 10-year follow-up. Management of locoregional recurrence depends on tumor biology, stage at presentation, and prior local and systemic therapy. With improvements in diagnostic, pathological, and surgical techniques, radiation and systemic therapy approach, outcomes in these patients have improved. In this review, we discuss the risk factors, prognostic factors, surgical and reconstruction options, re-irradiation, and role of systemic therapy to define a reasonable treatment approach without compromising oncologic safety and achieve good cosmetic and survival outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Goel
- Department of Surgical and Radiation Oncolgy, Jaypee Hospital, Noida, India
| | | | - Vikash Nayak
- Department of Surgical and Radiation Oncolgy, Jaypee Hospital, Noida, India
| | - Rekha Yogsrivas
- Department of Surgical and Radiation Oncolgy, Jaypee Hospital, Noida, India
| | - Abhishek Gulia
- Department of Surgical and Radiation Oncolgy, Jaypee Hospital, Noida, India
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23
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Stahl KA, Dodge D, Olecki EJ, Holguin RP, McLaughlin C, Wong W, Shen C. Insurance Status and Travel Distance to Single Treatment Facility Predictive of Mastectomy. J Surg Res 2021; 270:22-30. [PMID: 34628160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2021.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We evaluated the impact of insurance status and travel distance on the receipt of total mastectomy without reconstruction (TM) compared to breast conserving surgery with radiation (BCT) for early-stage breast cancer (BC) patients who received care at a single facility. We hypothesized that, lack of insurance and increased travel distance would be predictive of TM over BCT and disparities would vary by different races and/or ethnicities. METHODS Using the National Cancer Database from 2010-2017, we examined surgical patients with stage I or II BC, who received care at one facility. Chi-square tests examined subgroup differences by BCT or TM. Multivariable logistic regressions evaluated patient, facility, and pathologic factors associated with the receipt of TM over BCT for the entire cohort and by races and/or ethnicities. RESULTS Of the 284,202 patients, 70.1% received BCT while 29.9% received TM. After adjustment travel distance > 60 miles to a treatment facility, and non-insured patients were more likely to receive TM over BCT, when compared to travel distance < 20 miles and private insurance (all P < 0.05). Compared to other races and/or ethnicities, African Americans traveling > 60 miles were 65.4% more likely to receive TM over BCT compared to those traveling < 20 miles (P < .0001). Across all races and/or ethnicities after adjustment, lack of insurance was predictive for receipt of TM over BCT (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Despite treatment at one facility, increased travel distance and insurance status are independently predictive of the receipt of TM over BCT in patients with early-stage BC. While travel distance is particularly impactful for African Americans, the impact of not having insurance on surgical treatments is universal across all races and/or ethnicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Stahl
- College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Daleela Dodge
- College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Elizabeth J Olecki
- College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Rolfy Perez Holguin
- College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Christopher McLaughlin
- College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - William Wong
- College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Chan Shen
- College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Division of Outcomes Research and Quality, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
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24
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Evaluating the Impact of Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction for the Surgical Prevention of Lymphedema. Plast Reconstr Surg 2021; 147:373e-381e. [PMID: 33620920 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000007636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer-related lymphedema affects one in five patients. Its risk is increased by axillary lymph node dissection and regional lymph node radiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of immediate lymphatic reconstruction or the lymphatic microsurgical preventative healing approach on postoperative lymphedema incidence. METHODS The authors performed a retrospective review of all patients referred for immediate lymphatic reconstruction at the authors' institution from September of 2016 through February of 2019. Patients with preoperative measurements and a minimum of 6 months' follow-up data were identified. Medical records were reviewed for demographics, cancer treatment data, intraoperative management, and lymphedema incidence. RESULTS A total of 97 women with unilateral node-positive breast cancer underwent axillary nodal surgery and attempt at immediate lymphatic reconstruction over the study period. Thirty-two patients underwent successful immediate lymphatic reconstruction with a mean patient age of 54 years and body mass index of 28 ± 6 kg/m2. The median number of lymph nodes removed was 14 and the median follow-up time was 11.4 months (range, 6.2 to 26.9 months). Eighty-eight percent of patients underwent adjuvant radiotherapy of which 93 percent received regional lymph node radiotherapy. Mean L-Dex change was 2.9 units and mean change in volumetry by circumferential measurements and perometry was -1.7 percent and 1.3 percent, respectively. At the end of the study period, we found an overall 3.1 percent rate of lymphedema. CONCLUSION Using multiple measurement modalities and strict follow-up guidelines, the authors' findings support that immediate lymphatic reconstruction at the time of axillary surgery is a promising, safe approach for lymphedema prevention in a high-risk patient population. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, IV.
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25
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Hishida T, Masai K, Kaseda K, Asakura K, Asamura H. Debulking surgery for malignant tumors: the current status, evidence and future perspectives. Jpn J Clin Oncol 2021; 51:1349-1362. [PMID: 34254145 DOI: 10.1093/jjco/hyab107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Debulking surgery, also called cytoreductive surgery, is a resection of the tumor as much as possible and an intended incomplete resection for unresectable malignant tumors. Since the most important principle in surgical oncology is complete R0 resection, debulking surgery goes against the basic principle and obscures the concept of operability. However, debulking surgery has been advocated for various types of advanced malignant tumors, including gynecological cancers, urological cancers, gastrointestinal cancers, breast cancers and other malignancies, with or without adjuvant therapy. Positive data from randomized trials have been shown in subsets of ovarian cancer, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal cancer and breast cancer. However, recent trials for renal cell carcinoma, colorectal cancer and breast cancer have tended to show controversial results, mainly according to the survival improvement of nonsurgical systemic therapy alone. On the other hand, debulking surgery still has a therapeutic role for slow-growing and borderline malignant tumors, such as pseudomyxoma peritonei and thymomas. The recent understanding of tumor heterogeneity and clonal evolution responsible for malignancy and drug resistance indicates that select patients may obtain prolonged survival by the synergistic effect of debulking surgery and novel systemic therapy. This review aimed to describe the current status and evidence of debulking surgery in a cross-organ manner and to discuss future perspectives in the current era with advances in systemic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Hisao Asamura
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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26
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Chandra RA, Keane FK, Voncken FEM, Thomas CR. Contemporary radiotherapy: present and future. Lancet 2021; 398:171-184. [PMID: 34166607 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00233-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Oncology care is increasingly a multidisciplinary endeavour, and radiation therapy continues to have a key role across the disease spectrum in nearly every cancer. However, the field of radiation oncology is still one of the most poorly understood of the cancer disciplines. In this Review, we attempt to summarise and contextualise developments within the field of radiation oncology for the non-radiation oncologist. We discuss advancements in treatment technologies and imaging, followed by an overview of the interplay with advancements in systemic therapy and surgical techniques. Finally, we review new frontiers in radiation oncology, including advances within the metastatic disease continuum, reirradiation, and emerging types of radiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi A Chandra
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Florence K Keane
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francine E M Voncken
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Charles R Thomas
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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A multi-center investigation of breast-conserving surgery based on data from the Chinese Society of Breast Surgery (CSBrS-005). Chin Med J (Engl) 2021; 133:2660-2664. [PMID: 33031140 PMCID: PMC7647499 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000001152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Although breast-conserving surgery is one of the standard treatments for breast cancer, few studies have assessed its recent implementation in China. We aimed to clarify the current real-world status of breast-conserving surgery in China. Methods: This cross-sectional survey relied on data collected by the Chinese Society of Breast Surgery (CSBrS) to examine patients who underwent this surgery between January 2018 and December 2018. The survey was conducted using a uniform electronic questionnaire to collect information, including clinical and pathological data on these patients. Results: Overall, 4459 breast-conserving surgeries were performed in 34 member units of CSBrS, accounting for 14.6% of all breast cancer surgeries performed in these units during the study period. In patients who underwent breast-conserving surgery with information on tumor size available, more than half (61.2%) of the tumors were smaller than 2 cm in diameter, and only 87 (3.2%) tumors were larger than 4 cm in diameter. Among patients who underwent breast-conserving surgeries, 457 (10.2%) patients received neoadjuvant therapy before the surgery. Among patients with a reported margin width, 34 (2.0%) patients had a margin of ≤2 mm, and 1530 (88.2%) of them had a margin of >5 mm. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the rates of breast-conserving surgery in member units of the CSBrS, and introduced the characteristics and surgical margins of patients who underwent this surgery. This information helps describe the real-world status of breast-conserving surgery in China. Trial registration chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR1900026841; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=42783
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Terashima M. The 140 years' journey of gastric cancer surgery: From the two hands of Billroth to the multiple hands of the robot. Ann Gastroenterol Surg 2021; 5:270-277. [PMID: 34095716 PMCID: PMC8164465 DOI: 10.1002/ags3.12442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
After the initial achievement by Billroth in 1881, surgery for gastric cancer has become increasingly extended. However, it turned out to be limited in Western countries after the publication that denied the role of extended surgery in the 1960s. While surgeons in Japan were still enthusiastic about extended surgery, the Japan Clinical Oncology Group (JCOG) conducted clinical trials to validate the role of extended surgery. Contrary to expectations, the efficacy of extended surgery was not demonstrated. In gastric cancer surgery, postoperative complications were reported to be associated with poor survival. A survival benefit could not be obtained by extended surgery, with high morbidity. Therefore, the paradigm had been changed from extended surgery to minimally invasive surgery (MIS). As an MIS for gastric cancer, laparoscopic surgery has been considered a practical method. Initial laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) was first performed by Kitano in 1991. Thereafter, LG became increasingly common. Several clinical trials demonstrated the noninferiority of LG to open gastrectomy. LG is now regarded as the standard for cStage I gastric cancer, and the indication is expanding to advanced cancer. However, LG has some drawbacks owing to the restriction of movement caused by straight-shaped forceps. Robotic gastrectomy (RG) is considered a major breakthrough to circumvent the drawbacks in LG using articulated devices. However, the solid evidence demonstrating the advantage of RG has not been proved yet. The JCOG is now conducting a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the superiority of RG to LG in terms of reducing morbidity.
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Eddy DM, Billings J. The Quality of Medical Evidence and Medical Practice: March 1987. Am J Ophthalmol 2021; 225:189-205. [PMID: 32860753 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Kuijer A, Dominici LS, Rosenberg SM, Hu J, Gelber S, Di Lascio S, Wong JS, Ruddy KJ, Tamimi RM, Schapira L, Borges VF, Come SE, Sprunck-Harrild K, Partridge AH, King TA. Arm Morbidity After Local Therapy for Young Breast Cancer Patients. Ann Surg Oncol 2021; 28:6071-6082. [PMID: 33881656 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-09947-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of patient demographics and local therapy choice on arm morbidity in young breast cancer patients is understudied despite its importance given the long survivorship period. This study assessed patient-reported arm morbidity in the Young Women's Breast Cancer Study (YWS), a prospective cohort study. METHODS From 2006 to 2016, 1302 women with breast cancer diagnosed at the age of 40 years or younger enrolled in the YWS. The participants regularly complete surveys. The response rates are higher than 86%. Using the Breast Cancer Prevention Trial Checklist, this study examined the prevalence of patient-reported postoperative arm swelling and decreased range of motion (ROM) 1 year after diagnosis, stratified by local therapy strategy, in patients who had surgery for stages 1 to 3 disease. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for arm morbidity. RESULTS Among 888 eligible participants (median age, 37 years), 14% reported arm swelling and 34% reported decreased ROM at 1 year. Arm swelling was reported by 23.6% of the patients who had axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and 24.6% of the patients who received ALND and post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT). In the multivariable analysis, the patients who reported being financially uncomfortable or who had ALND were at higher risk of arm swelling at 1 year. Being overweight, receiving ALND after sentinel lymph node biopsy, and receiving PMRT were associated with decreased ROM at 1 year. CONCLUSION High rates of self-reported arm morbidity in young breast cancer survivors were reported, particularly in patients receiving ALND and PMRT. Attention to the risks and benefits of differing local therapy strategies for ALND and PMRT patients is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Kuijer
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Surgery, Antonius ziekenhuis, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Laura S Dominici
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shoshana M Rosenberg
- Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jiani Hu
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shari Gelber
- Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Simona Di Lascio
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julia S Wong
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Rulla M Tamimi
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lidia Schapira
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford, CA, USA.,Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Virginia F Borges
- Medical Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Steven E Come
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Ann H Partridge
- Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tari A King
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA. .,Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Abstract
Lung metastases are a common site of spread for many malignant tumours. Pulmonary metastasectomy has been practiced for many years for sarcomas and is now becoming increasingly frequently advocated for patients with many other tumours, especially colorectal cancer. In this article we argue that this procedure is one framed by therapeutic opportunity and not supported by strong evidence. It is potentially harmful and may not be effective. Our argument is based on several important issues: (I) the vagueness of the concept of “oligometastases” and its biological implausibility; (II) the flaws in the often-cited observational evidence, especially selection bias; (III) the lack of any reliable randomised trial evidence of improved survival but evidence of harm; (IV) the failure of strategies to detect metastases earlier to influence overall survival. The introduction of stereotactic radiotherapy and image-guided thermal ablation have made the urge to treat lung metastases stronger but without any good evidence to justify their use. We acknowledge the problems of carrying out randomised trials when there is a clear lack of equipoise in the clinical teams involved but believe that there is an ethical need to do so. Many patients are probably being given false hope of cure or prolonged survival but are at risk of harm from pulmonary metastasectomy or ablation. It is possible that a few patients may benefit but without better evidence we do not know which, if any, do.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Treasure
- Clinical Operational Research Unit, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fergus Macbeth
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Darsaut TE, Raymond J. Ethical care requires pragmatic care research to guide medical practice under uncertainty. Trials 2021; 22:143. [PMID: 33588946 PMCID: PMC7885344 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05084-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current research-care separation was introduced to protect patients from explanatory studies designed to gain knowledge for future patients. Care trials are all-inclusive pragmatic trials integrated into medical practice, with no extra tests, risks, or cost, and have been designed to guide practice under uncertainty in the best medical interest of the patient. PROPOSED REVISION Patients need a distinction between validated care, previously verified to provide better outcomes, and promising but unvalidated care, which may include unnecessary or even harmful interventions. While validated care can be practiced normally, unvalidated care should only be offered within declared pragmatic care research, designed to protect patients from harm. The validated/unvalidated care distinction is normative, necessary to the ethics of medical practice. Care trials, which mark the distinction and allow the tentative use of promising interventions necessarily involve patients, and thus the design and conduct of pragmatic care research must respect the overarching rule of care ethics "to always act in the best medical interest of the patient." Yet, unvalidated interventions offered in contexts of medical uncertainty cannot be prescribed or practiced as if they were validated care. The medical interests of current patients are best protected when unvalidated practices are restricted to a care trial protocol, with 1:1 random allocation (or "hemi-prescription") versus previously validated care, to optimize potential benefits and minimize risks for each patient. CONCLUSION Pragmatic trials can regulate medical practice by providing (i) a transparent demarcation between unvalidated and validated care; (ii) norms of medical conduct when using tests and interventions of yet unknown benefits in practice; and eventually (iii) a verdict regarding optimal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim E. Darsaut
- Mackenzie Health Sciences Centre, Department of Surgery, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Alberta Hospital, 8440 - 112 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2B7 Canada
| | - Jean Raymond
- Department of Radiology, Service of Interventional Neuroradiology, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal – CHUM, 1000 St-Denis, room D03-5462B, Montreal, QC H2X 0C1 Canada
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Darsaut T, Raymond J. Experience using pragmatic care trials to guide neurovascular practice under uncertainty. Neurochirurgie 2020; 66:423-428. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2020.06.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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34
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Elmore LC, Dietz JR, Myckatyn TM, Margenthaler JA. The Landmark Series: Mastectomy Trials (Skin-Sparing and Nipple-Sparing and Reconstruction Landmark Trials). Ann Surg Oncol 2020; 28:273-280. [PMID: 32886286 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-020-09052-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in medical therapy, the foundation of breast cancer treatment is surgery. The landscape of operative intervention for breast cancer has shifted toward less invasive techniques, resulting in improved cosmesis and lower morbidity while maintaining oncologic integrity. In this article, we review the body of literature contributing to landmark advances in mastectomy for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leisha C Elmore
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jill R Dietz
- Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Terence M Myckatyn
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Julie A Margenthaler
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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Joshi S, Noronha J, Hawaldar R, Kundgulwar G, Vanmali V, Parmar V, Nair N, Shet T, Badwe R. Merits of Level III Axillary Dissection in Node-Positive Breast Cancer: A Prospective, Single-Institution Study From India. J Glob Oncol 2020; 5:1-8. [PMID: 30811304 PMCID: PMC6426546 DOI: 10.1200/jgo.18.00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A complete axillary lymph node (ALN) dissection is therapeutic in node-positive breast cancer. Presently, there is no international consensus regarding anatomic levels to be addressed in complete axillary dissection. We assessed the burden of disease in level III axilla. MATERIALS AND METHODS A prospectively maintained database was assessed for 1,591 consecutive patients with nonmetastatic breast cancer registered at Tata Memorial Center, Mumbai, between January 2009 and December 2014. RESULTS A median of four (zero to 20) level III ALNs were dissected and a median of two (one to 17) nodes were positive. A total of 27.3% (434 of 1,591) patients had level III ALN metastasis, and 4.7% of patients had positive interpectoral nodes. Some 53.2% of patients had level III metastases in the presence of four or more positive level I and II ALNs. A total of 9.4% of patients had level III involvement when one to three ALNs were positive in level I and II ( P < .001). Some 53.2% of patients had level III metastases in the presence of four or more positive level I and II ALNs. On logistic regression analysis, four or more positive ALNs in level I or II ( P < .001), inner/central quadrant tumor location ( P = .013), and perinodal extension ( P < .001) were associated with level III ALN involvement. At a median follow-up of 36 months, the disease-free survival was significantly worse for level III ALN metastases on univariate analysis ( P < .001). On multivariate Cox regression analysis, histologic grade ( P = .006), four or more positive ALNs ( P < .001), hormone receptor status ( P < .001), and tumor size ( P = .037) were independent prognostic factors for disease-free survival. CONCLUSION The axillary nodal burden is high in patients with breast cancer in developing countries like India. One of two women with four or more positive level I and II ALNs may have residual disease in level III if it is not cleared during surgery. Intraoperative interpectoral space clearance should be considered in the presence of either palpable interpectoral lymph nodes or multiple positive ALNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalaka Joshi
- Tata Memorial Hospital Parel, Mumbai, Maharastra, India
| | - Jarin Noronha
- Tata Memorial Hospital Parel, Mumbai, Maharastra, India
| | | | | | | | - Vani Parmar
- Tata Memorial Hospital Parel, Mumbai, Maharastra, India
| | - Nita Nair
- Tata Memorial Hospital Parel, Mumbai, Maharastra, India
| | - Tanuja Shet
- Tata Memorial Hospital Parel, Mumbai, Maharastra, India
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Almahariq MF, Maywood MJ, Levitin RB, Squires BS, Jawad MS, Chen PY, Gustafson GS, Dilworth JT. Mapping of Metastatic Level I Axillary Lymph Nodes in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2020; 106:811-820. [PMID: 31928847 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2019.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined the distribution of pretreatment nodal metastases to the level I axilla (Ax-L1) to assess the appropriateness of current breast atlases and provide guidelines in relationship to easily identifiable anatomic landmarks for accurate delineation of this lymph node (LN) basin. METHODS AND MATERIALS Patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer and biopsy-proven metastatic Ax-L1 LNs were identified. We related the location of each LN to its most adjacent rib and its distance from the bottom of the humeral head, axillary vessels, and a line connecting the anterior aspects of the pectoralis and latissimus dorsi muscles (P-L line). LNs were mapped onto a representative planning computed tomography scan, and their distribution was used to validate the current Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology, and Radiotherapy Comparative Effectiveness breast atlases. Furthermore, we examined metastases to a subregion encompassing the superolateral Ax-L1, irradiation of which correlates highly with lymphedema. RESULTS We identified 106 eligible patients with 107 biopsied LNs. All LNs fell between the second and fifth ribs (mean, 3.8 ± 0.56). Mean distance from the inferior aspect of the humeral head was 4.3 ± 1.6 cm (range, 0.3-8.4). Mean distance from the inferior aspect of the axillary vessels was 2.9 ± 1.5 cm (range, -0.6 to 5.4). Mean distance from the P-L line was 0.01 ± 1.9 cm (range, -2.2 to 2.4); negative and positive values denote medial or lateral to the P-L line. A Radiation Therapy Oncology Group-compliant Ax-L1 consensus contour, created from contours by 4 attending breast radiation oncologists, partially or fully missed 45% of mapped LNs. European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology- and Radiotherapy Comparative Effectiveness-compliant Ax-L1 similarly missed 46% and 34% of mapped LNs, respectively. LNs were most frequently missed in the lateral direction. The superolateral Ax-L1 encompassed 9.3% of the mapped LNs. CONCLUSIONS A significant percentage of at-risk Ax-L1 tissue falls outside current contouring atlases. We propose expansion of the recommended Ax-L1 borders, most notably in the lateral direction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael J Maywood
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, Michigan
| | - Ronald B Levitin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beaumont Health, Royal Oak, Michigan
| | - Bryan S Squires
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beaumont Health, Royal Oak, Michigan
| | - Maha S Jawad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beaumont Health, Royal Oak, Michigan
| | - Peter Y Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beaumont Health, Royal Oak, Michigan
| | | | - Joshua T Dilworth
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beaumont Health, Royal Oak, Michigan.
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Almahariq MF, Quinn TJ, Siddiqui Z, Jawad MS, Chen PY, Gustafson GS, Dilworth JT. Breast conserving therapy is associated with improved overall survival compared to mastectomy in early-stage, lymph node-negative breast cancer. Radiother Oncol 2020; 142:186-194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2019.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Fisher CS, Margenthaler JA, Hunt KK, Schwartz T. The Landmark Series: Axillary Management in Breast Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2019; 27:724-729. [PMID: 31863417 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-019-08154-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The evolution in axillary management for patients with breast cancer has resulted in multiple dramatic changes over the past several decades. The end result has been an overall deescalation of surgery in the axilla. Landmark trials that have formed the basis for the current treatment guidelines are reviewed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla S Fisher
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Julie A Margenthaler
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Kelly K Hunt
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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A Radiation Oncologist’s Guide to Axillary Management in Breast Cancer: a Walk Through the Trials. CURRENT BREAST CANCER REPORTS 2019; 11:293-302. [DOI: 10.1007/s12609-019-00330-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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40
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Sun L, Li P, Ren H, Liu G, Sun L. Quantifying the number of lymph nodes for examination in breast cancer. J Int Med Res 2019; 48:300060519879594. [PMID: 31640445 PMCID: PMC7607195 DOI: 10.1177/0300060519879594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Examining the correct number of lymph nodes when diagnosing breast cancer invasion is still a problem. This work aimed to develop a qualification model that estimates the possibility of missing nodes and the number of lymph nodes that need to be examined. METHODS By analyzing lymph node invasion of 303,760 breast cancer samples with primary tumor stage and the number of examined and positive lymph nodes from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database using a beta-binomial model, the number of nodes that should be examined was quantified in different stages. RESULTS In general, to reduce the possibility of missing positive nodes to less than 10%, 21 lymph nodes should be examined; thus, the current median of dissected nodes (12) is not adequate. The number of nodes needed to be dissected for stages T1, T2, and T3 are 8, 37, and 87, respectively. Currently, the median number of node dissections for these stages were 12, 13, and 14, respectively. The clinical significance of the nodal staging score was validated with survival information. CONCLUSION Currently, the number of lymph nodes dissected in breast cancer are excessive for T1 but insufficient for T2 and T3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Sun
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Ping Li
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - He Ren
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Gang Liu
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Lining Sun
- School of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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41
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42
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Sheng L, Zhang G, Li S, Jiang Z, Cao W. Magnetic Resonance Lymphography of Lymphatic Vessels in Upper Extremity With Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema. Ann Plast Surg 2019; 84:100-105. [PMID: 31261176 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000001994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Magnetic resonance lymphangiography (MRL) has been proven to be able to visualize pathological lymphatic networks and accompanying complications through subcutaneous injection of commonly used contrast agents. However, no comprehensive prior studies have previously been reported regarding MRL for the evaluation of upper extremity lymphedema in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). In this study, we establish a novel MRL protocol to characterize the normal and abnormal characteristics of different clinical stages of BCRL in patients using high-spatial-resolution MRL. METHODS Fifty females with unilateral upper extremity BCRL underwent MRL. Lymphatic vessel morphology in normal and affected limbs was compared. The appearance, distribution pattern, morphologic characteristics, and maximum transversal diameter of the lymphatic vessels, dermal backflow, and regeneration of lymphatic vessels were analyzed. RESULTS Lymph fluid was retained in the subcutis of the affected limbs, and no edema was observed in the subfascial compartment. In stage 1, tortuous and dilated lymphatic vessels exhibited a beaded appearance, and their diameters were larger than those in the contralateral forearm (P < 0.05). In stage 2, the dilated lymphatic vessels exhibited larger diameters. "Dermal backflow" and tiny regenerated lymphatic vessels appeared. The thickened subcutaneous tissue showed a honeycomb pattern induced by soft tissue fibrosis and adipose hypertrophy. In stage 3, disordered and unrecognizable affected lymphatic vessels were observed with many small regenerated lymphatics and confluent dermal backflow; the tissue fibrosis was more serious. CONCLUSIONS Each stage presents different characteristics, and the deformity degree of the lymphatic network is consistent with the severity of the disease. Magnetic resonance lymphangiography could provide adequate information for clinical staging in patients with BCRL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Sheng
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
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Karanlik H, Igci A. Surgical Approach in Invasive Breast Cancer. Breast Cancer 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-96947-3_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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44
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Lovasik BP, Seidel RL, Novello M, Torres MA, Losken A, Rizzo M. Single incision for oncologic breast conserving surgery and sentinel node biopsy in early stage breast cancer: A minimally invasive approach. Breast J 2018; 25:41-46. [PMID: 30511408 DOI: 10.1111/tbj.13158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast conserving surgery (BCS) has a postoperative morbidity up to 30%. We report the feasibility of a single-incision approach for tumor excision and axillary sentinel node biopsy (SNB) sampling intended to minimize patient morbidity and complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS A tertiary surgical oncology single surgeon database was retrospectively reviewed for all patients undergoing BCS and SNB between January 2013 and December 2015. The single-incision approach used a single breast incision to resect the tumor and the Lymphazurin-tagged SNB. The multi-incision group used a breast incision and a separate axillary incision. RESULTS The single-incision approach was associated with shorter operative time (56 vs 64 minutes, P = 0.026). Sentinel node retrieval was achieved in 100% in both groups. The single-incision technique was used primarily in the upper outer quadrant (N = 41, 85.4%), but was also selectively applied in other quadrants (N = 5). There was no significant difference in complication rates between the two procedures (P = 0.425), and there were no instances of conversion from single-incision to standard BCS-SNB. CONCLUSIONS Minimally invasive breast conserving surgery is feasible for patients with early breast cancer located in the upper outer quadrants. This technique may reduce postoperative morbidity and improved cosmetic result.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca L Seidel
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Mylin A Torres
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Albert Losken
- Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Monica Rizzo
- Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Menezes KM, Wang H, Hada M, Saganti PB. Radiation Matters of the Heart: A Mini Review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2018; 5:83. [PMID: 30038908 PMCID: PMC6046516 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation Therapy (RT) has been critical in cancer treatment regimens to date. However, it has been shown that ionizing radiation is also associated with increased risk of damage to healthy tissues. At high radiation doses, varied effects including inactivation of cells in treated tissue and associated functional impairment are seen. These range from direct damage to the heart; particularly, diffuse fibrosis of the pericardium and myocardium, adhesion of the pericardium, injury to the blood vessels and stenosis. Cardiac damage is mostly a late responding end-point, occurring anywhere between 1 and 10 years after radiation procedures. Cardiovascular disease following radiotherapy was more common with radiation treatments used before the late 1980s. Modern RT regimens with more focused radiation beams, allow tumors to be targeted more precisely and shield the heart and other healthy tissues for minimizing the radiation damage to normal cells. In this review, we discuss radiation therapeutic doses used and post-radiation damage to the heart muscle from published studies. We also emphasize the need for early detection of cardiotoxicity and the need for more cardio-protection approaches where feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kareena M Menezes
- Radiation Institute for Science and Engineering, A Texas A&M Chancellor's Research Initiative, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX, United States
| | - Huichen Wang
- Radiation Institute for Science and Engineering, A Texas A&M Chancellor's Research Initiative, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX, United States
| | - Megumi Hada
- Radiation Institute for Science and Engineering, A Texas A&M Chancellor's Research Initiative, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX, United States
| | - Premkumar B Saganti
- Radiation Institute for Science and Engineering, A Texas A&M Chancellor's Research Initiative, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX, United States
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Ollila DW, Hwang ES, Brenin DR, Kuerer HM, Yao K, Feldman S. The Changing Paradigms for Breast Cancer Surgery: Performing Fewer and Less-Invasive Operations. Ann Surg Oncol 2018; 25:2807-2812. [PMID: 29968033 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-018-6618-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Historically, through the conduct of prospective clinical trials, breast cancer surgeons have performed less radical breast and axillary surgeries with no survival decrement to our patients. Currently, other opportunities exist for the treating breast surgeon to do less. Possibilities include active surveillance for ductal carcinoma in situ, ablative therapy for small primary breast cancers, selective omission of a sentinel node biopsy, and selective elimination of breast surgery after neoadjuvant systemic therapy. Breast surgeons must be leaders in the development and testing of effective therapy with the least intervention possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Ollila
- Department of Surgery, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | | | - David R Brenin
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Henry M Kuerer
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Katharine Yao
- Department of Surgery, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Sheldon Feldman
- Department of Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, The University Hospital for the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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48
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Niehoff P, Hey-Koch S. Lymph Node Radiotherapy Instead of Extended Axillary Surgery - the New Standard? Breast Care (Basel) 2018; 13:173-175. [PMID: 30069177 DOI: 10.1159/000489892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer treatment has undergone major changes in the last 20 years. Specifically, the role of axillary lymph node dissection has changed from radical axillary dissection with excision of a high number of lymph nodes to sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). This paradigm shift is associated with a controversial debate regarding the significance of axillary staging, the need for surgery, and the role of radiotherapy. Looking ahead, lymph node staging and axillary treatment might shift from SLNB and/or axillary dissection to ultrasound-guided needle biopsy and irradiation of regional lymph nodes in order to reduce treatment-related sequelae in early-stage breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Niehoff
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sana Klinikum Offenbach, Offenbach, Germany
| | - Silla Hey-Koch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sana Klinikum Offenbach, Offenbach, Germany
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49
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Abstract
Breast cancer is a disease that affects women >70 years of age much more frequently than other age groups. Epidemiologic data show that more than 40% of breast cancers occur in the elderly. The optimal primary treatment for elderly patients with breast cancer is controversial and ranges from tamoxifen as sole therapy to surgery. Despite the high prevalence of the disease, the elderly have been excluded from clinical trials mainly for the presence of concurrent medical conditions that adversely affect treatment strategies. Since life expectancy continues to increase in western countries, an appropriate treatment that respects quality of life needs to be determined for the elderly age group. In the light of randomised and retrospective studies carried out to date, limited surgery without axillary dissection plus adjuvant tamoxifen seems to achieve, mainly for elderly patients with early stage breast cancer, a local-regional control rate comparable to that obtained with more aggressive therapeutic strategies. The results of ongoing prospective clinical trials will show whether or not conservative surgery without axillary clearance and tamoxifen may be routinely used for elderly patients with early breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Martelli
- Divisione Semeiotica Chirurgica, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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Schifano P, Scarinci M, Borgia P, Perucci CA. Analysis of the Recourse to Conservative Surgery in the Treatment of Breast Tumors. TUMORI JOURNAL 2018; 88:131-6. [PMID: 12088253 DOI: 10.1177/030089160208800210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Aims and Background Conservative surgery is the treatment of choice for malignant tumors, at least up to stage II. The aim of this study was to analyze the recourse to conservative surgery for breast tumors and its determinants (ie, characteristics of hospitals and patients). Methods The study was conducted in Italy's Lazio region and was based on administrative data of the regional Hospital Information System, a database on hospitalizations. We selected all regional hospitalizations for therapeutic breast surgery over 1997, classifying them as either “conservative” or “non-conservative”. The other variables considered were type of hospital, number of beds, volume of activity (average annual number of hospitalizations for breast cancer surgery), specific diagnosis, severity of cancer, and patient's age, place of residence, and socioeconomic level. A logistic model was used for multivariate analysis. Results A total of 7235 hospitalizations were analyzed, 3570 (49%) for malignant tumors and 3665 (51%) for benign disease. The logistic model showed that the factors most closely correlated with conservative surgery were age (OR = 2.2; 95% Cl: 1.8-2.6, for the age group <50 years compared to >70 years); severity of cancer (OR = 0.6; 95% Cl: 0.5-0.8, for non-localized compared to localized tumors), and volume of activity of the hospital (OR = 1.3; 95% Cl: 1.0-1.6, for hospitals with >70 operations/year compared to those with <20 operations/year). The study also revealed that surgery for malignant tumors was performed by both high-volume and low-volume hospitals throughout the region. Conclusions The association between conservative surgery and younger age, even after controlling for the severity of cancer, points to the need to encourage adherence to the existing guidelines. The association between conservative surgery and high-volume hospitals and the finding that a high proportion of breast operations is performed in low-volume facilities suggest that further efforts should be made to promote admission to high-volume hospitals.
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