Patient and surgeon characteristics associated with increased use of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in patients with breast cancer

Locoregional Management of Multiple Ipsilateral Breast Cancers: A Review

The incidence of preoperatively diagnosed multiple ipsilateral breast cancer (MIBC) is increasing due to improved sensitivity of screening and preoperative staging modalities including digital breast tomosynthesis (3D breast mammography) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The surgical management of MIBC remains controversial. Many surgeons continue to recommend mastectomy due to high local recurrence rates in patients with MIBC undergoing breast conservation therapy reported in historic, retrospective studies. More recent retrospective studies report acceptable rates of local recurrence. Yet concerns persist due to a paucity of prospective data regarding recurrence as well as concerns for margin positivity, cosmetic outcomes and the feasibility of adequate and safe delivery of radiation following breast conserving surgery. Breast conservation has emerged as the preferred surgical strategy for eligible patients with unifocal disease. Benefits include improved quality of life, body image and sexual function and lower surgical complication rates. A recent prospective clinical trial has corroborated a large body of retrospective data confirming the safety of breast conserving therapy and adjuvant radiation in women with MIBC with good oncologic control, low rates of conversion to mastectomy and satisfactory patient-reported cosmetic outcomes. With the current rise in MIBC diagnoses, it is imperative that surgeons understand the existent evidence in order to guide shared decision-making conversations with patients diagnosed with MIBC. This comprehensive review synthesizes the best available data and offers current recommendations for management of both the primary sites of disease as well as management of the axilla in patients with MIBC.

Society of Surgical Oncology Breast Disease Site Working Group Statement on Contralateral Mastectomy: Indications, Outcomes, and Risks

Rates of contralateral mastectomy (CM) among patients with unilateral breast cancer have been increasing in the United States. In this Society of Surgical Oncology position statement, we review the literature addressing the indications, risks, and benefits of CM since the society's 2017 statement. We held a virtual meeting to outline key topics and then conducted a literature search using PubMed to identify relevant articles. We reviewed the articles and made recommendations based on group consensus. Patients consider CM for many reasons, including concerns regarding the risk of contralateral breast cancer (CBC), desire for improved cosmesis and symmetry, and preferences to avoid ongoing screening, whereas surgeons primarily consider CBC risk when making a recommendation for CM. For patients with a high risk of CBC, CM reduces the risk of new breast cancer, however it is not known to convey an overall survival benefit. Studies evaluating patient satisfaction with CM and reconstruction have yielded mixed results. Imaging with mammography within 12 months before CM is recommended, but routine preoperative breast magnetic resonance imaging is not; there is also no evidence to support routine postmastectomy imaging surveillance. Because the likelihood of identifying an occult malignancy during CM is low, routine sentinel lymph node surgery is not recommended. Data on the rates of postoperative complications are conflicting, and such complications may not be directly related to CM. Adjuvant therapy delays due to complications have not been reported. Surgeons can reduce CM rates by encouraging shared decision making and informed discussions incorporating patient preferences.

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in a rural population: A single-institution experience

Background

The incidence of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) for unilateral breast cancer (UBC) has continued to increase, despite an absent survival benefit except in populations at highest risk for developing contralateral breast cancer (CBC). CPM rates may be higher in rural populations but causes remain unclear. A study performed at our institution previously found that 21.8 % of patients with UBC underwent CPM from 2000 to 2009. This study aimed to evaluate the CPM trend at a single institution serving a rural population and identify the CPM rate in average-risk patients.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients who underwent mastectomies for UBC at our institution from 2017 to 2021 was performed. Analysis utilized frequencies and percentages, descriptive statistics, chi-square, and independent sample t-tests.

Results

A total of 438 patients were included, of whom 64.4 % underwent bilateral mastectomy for UBC (CPM). Patients who underwent CPM were significantly younger, underwent genetic testing, had germline pathogenic variants, had a family history of breast cancer, had smaller tumors, underwent reconstruction, and had more wound infections. Of CPM patients, 50.4 % had no identifiable factors for increased risk of developing CBC.

Conclusions

The rate of CPM in a rural population at a single institution increased from 21.8 % to 64.4 % over two decades, with an average-risk CPM rate of 50.4 %. Those that undergo CPM are more likely to undergo reconstruction and have more wound infections. Identifying characteristics of patients undergoing CPM in a rural population and the increased associated risks allows for a better understanding of this trend to guide conversations with patients.

Key message

This study demonstrates that the rate of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy for unilateral breast cancers performed at a single institution serving a largely rural population has nearly tripled over the last two decades, with half of these patients having no factors that increase the risk for developing contralateral breast cancers. Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy was significantly associated with smaller tumors, younger age, genetic testing, germline pathogenic variants, family history of breast cancer, breast reconstruction, and increased wound infections.

BRCA1/2 mutation carriers & risk reducing mastectomy: Who undergoes surgery and potential benefits

BACKGROUND

Risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM) is the most effective breast cancer risk-reduction strategy in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers. We examined factors associated with RRM and its relationship with overall survival (OS).

METHODS

Patients aged 18-80y at diagnosis of their BRCA1/2 mutation were selected from our institutional database and stratified by RRM receipt. Differences were tested; unadjusted OS was estimated.

RESULTS

Of the 306 patients, median age was 43y; median follow-up was 41.6mo. Patients undergoing RRM were more often married with a history of pregnancy (both p ​≤ ​0.05). Of female patients, 23.1% underwent RRM. Two patients had malignancy detected at RRM, and one developed breast cancer after RRM. Higher unadjusted OS was observed with RRM (p ​= ​0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Our analyses suggest that family-structure may play a role in a patient's decision to undergo RRM. We also demonstrated RRM is likely associated with improved survival, potentially underscoring the importance of this option for BRCA1/2 mutation carriers.

Patient-driven decisions and perceptions of the 'safest possible choice': insights from patient-provider conversations about how some breast cancer patients choose contralateral prophylactic mastectomy

OBJECTIVE

Observe patient-clinician communication to gain insight about the reasons underlying the choice of patients with unilateral breast cancer to undergo contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM), despite lack of survival benefit, risk of harms, and cautions expressed by surgical guidelines and clinicians.

METHODS & MEASURES

WORDS is a prospective study that explored patient-clinician communication and patient decision making. Participants recorded clinical visits through a downloadable mobile application. We analyzed 44 recordings from 22 patients: 9 who chose CPM, 8 who considered CPM but decided against it, and 5 who never considered CPM. We used abductive analysis combined with constructivist grounded theory methods.

RESULTS

Decisions to undergo CPM are patient-driven and motivated by perceptions that CPM is the most aggressive, and therefore safest, treatment option available. These decisions are shaped not primarily by the content of conversations with clinicians, but by the history of cancer in patients' families, their own first-hand experiences with cancers among loved ones, fear for their children, and anxiety about cancer recurrence.

CONCLUSION

The perception that CPM is the safest, most aggressive option strongly influences patients, despite scientific evidence to the contrary. Future efforts to address high CPM rates should focus on patient-driven decision making and cancer-related fears.

Association between patient-surgeon gender concordance and mortality after surgery in the United States: retrospective observational study

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether patient-surgeon gender concordance is associated with mortality of patients after surgery in the United States.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational study.

SETTING

Acute care hospitals in the US.

PARTICIPANTS

100% of Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries aged 65-99 years who had one of 14 major elective or non-elective (emergent or urgent) surgeries in 2016-19.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Mortality after surgery, defined as death within 30 days of the operation. Adjustments were made for patient and surgeon characteristics and hospital fixed effects (effectively comparing patients within the same hospital).

RESULTS

Among 2 902 756 patients who had surgery, 1 287 845 (44.4%) had operations done by surgeons of the same gender (1 201 712 (41.4%) male patient and male surgeon, 86 133 (3.0%) female patient and female surgeon) and 1 614 911 (55.6%) were by surgeons of different gender (52 944 (1.8%) male patient and female surgeon, 1 561 967 (53.8%) female patient and male surgeon). Adjusted 30 day mortality after surgery was 2.0% for male patient-male surgeon dyads, 1.7% for male patient-female surgeon dyads, 1.5% for female patient-male surgeon dyads, and 1.3% for female patient-female surgeon dyads. Patient-surgeon gender concordance was associated with a slightly lower mortality for female patients (adjusted risk difference -0.2 percentage point (95% confidence interval -0.3 to -0.1); P<0.001), but a higher mortality for male patients (0.3 (0.2 to 0.5); P<0.001) for elective procedures, although the difference was small and not clinically meaningful. No evidence suggests that operative mortality differed by patient-surgeon gender concordance for non-elective procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-operative mortality rates were similar (ie, the difference was small and not clinically meaningful) among the four types of patient-surgeon gender dyads.

Surgeon Gender and Performance Outcomes for Hysterectomies: Retrospective Cohort Study

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether there are differences in several performance metrics between male and female surgeons for hysterectomies.

DESIGN

Multicenter retrospective cohort study. We matched surgeries performed by female surgeons to those by male surgeons using a propensity score and compared outcomes by gender after adjusting for years in practice and fellowship training.

SETTING

A total of 6 hospitals (3 academic, 3 community) in Ontario, Canada, between July 2016 and December 2019.

PATIENTS

All consecutive patients.

INTERVENTIONS

Hysterectomy.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Primary outcome was a composite of any complication or return to emergency room (ER) within 30 days. Secondary outcomes were grade II or greater complications, return to ER, and operative time. We included 2664 hysterectomies performed by 77 surgeons. After propensity matching, 963 surgeries performed by females were compared with 963 performed by males. There were no differences in the primary (relative risk [RR], 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.71-1.20; p = .56) or secondary outcomes of grade II or greater complication (RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.71-1.45; p = .96) or return to ER (RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.55-1.20; p = .30). However, surgeries performed by males were 24.72 minutes shorter (95% CI, 18.09-31.34 minutes; p <.001). Entire cohort post hoc regression analysis confirmed these findings. E-value analysis indicated that it is unlikely for an unmeasured confounder to undo the observed difference.

CONCLUSION

Although complication and readmission rates are similar, male surgeons may have a shorter operating time than female surgeons for hysterectomies, which may have implications for health systems and inequalities in surgeon renumeration.

Insurance Coverage of Prophylactic Mastectomies: A National Review of the United States

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is associated with a multitude of risk factors, such as genetic predisposition and mutations, family history, personal medical history, or previous radiotherapy. A prophylactic mastectomy (PM) may be considered a suitable risk-reducing procedure in some cases. However, there are significant discrepancies between national society recommendations and insurance company requirements for PM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors conducted a cross-sectional analysis of insurance policies for a PM. One-hundred companies were selected based on the greatest state enrolment and market share. Their policies were identified through a Web-based search and telephone interviews, and their medical necessity criteria were extracted.

RESULTS

Preauthorized coverage of PMs was provided by 39% of insurance policies (n = 39) and 5 indications were identified. There was consensus amongst these policies to cover a PM for BRCA1/2 mutations (n = 39, 100%), but was more variable for other genetic mutations (15%-90%). Coverage of PM for the remaining indications varied among insurers: previous radiotherapy (92%), pathological changes in the breast (3%-92%), personal history of cancer (64%) and family history risk factors (39%-51%).

CONCLUSION

There is a marked level of variability in both the indications and medical necessity criteria for PM insurance policies. The decision to undergo a PM must be carefully considered with a patient's care team and should not be affected by insurance coverage status.

Analysis of a Trend Reversal in US Lumpectomy Rates From 2005 Through 2017 Using 3 Nationwide Data Sets

Importance

Rates of lumpectomy for breast cancer management in the United States previously declined in favor of more aggressive surgical options, such as mastectomy and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM).

Objective

To evaluate longitudinal trends in the rates of lumpectomy and mastectomy, including unilateral mastectomy vs CPM rates, and to determine characteristics associated with current surgical practice using 3 national data sets.

Design and Setting

Data from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP), Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program, and National Cancer Database (NCDB) were examined to evaluate trends in lumpectomy and mastectomy rates from 2005 through 2017. Mastectomy rates were also evaluated with a focus on CPM. Longitudinal trends were analyzed using the Cochran-Armitage test for trend. Multivariate logistic regression models were performed on the NCDB data set to identify predictors of lumpectomy and CPM.

Results

A study sample of 3 467 645 female surgical breast cancer patients was analyzed. Lumpectomy rates reached a nadir between 2010 and 2013, with a significant increase thereafter. Conversely, in comparison with lumpectomy rates, overall mastectomy rates declined significantly starting in 2013. Cochran-Armitage trend tests demonstrated an annual decrease in lumpectomy rates of 1.31% (95% CI, 1.30%-1.32%), 0.07% (95% CI, 0.01%-0.12%), and 0.15% (95% CI, 0.15%-0.16%) for NSQIP, SEER, and NCDB, respectively, from 2005 to 2013 (P < .001, P = .01, and P < .001, respectively). From 2013 to 2017, the annual increase in lumpectomy rates was 0.96% (95% CI, 0.95%-0.98%), 1.60% (95% CI, 1.59%-1.62%), and 1.66% (95% CI, 1.65%-1.67%) for NSQIP, SEER, and NCDB, respectively (all P < .001). Comparisons of specific mastectomy types showed that unilateral mastectomy and CPM rates stabilized after 2013, with unilateral mastectomy rates remaining higher than CPM rates throughout the entire time period.

Conclusions

This observational longitudinal analysis indicated a trend reversal with an increase in lumpectomy rates since 2013 and an associated decline in mastectomies. The steady increase in CPM rates from 2005 to 2013 has since stabilized. The reasons for the recent reversal in trends are likely multifactorial. Further qualitative and quantitative research is required to understand the factors driving these recent practice changes and their associations with patient-reported outcomes.

Trends of Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy at the time of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence

BACKGROUND

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy rates have substantially increased. The study aimed to examine contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) at the time of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) and evaluate factors contributing to CPM decision making process.

METHOD

Patients who developed IBTR after BCS from 2011 to 2019 were reviewed. Patient and tumor characteristics, genetic testing and reconstruction details were analyzed.

RESULTS

Ninety-six patients had IBTR after BCS and were treated with mastectomy, with 30% electing for a CPM. Patients who underwent CPM were younger, had higher BMI and less comorbidities. A genetic mutation was identified in 19% of patients who underwent testing at the time of IBTR. Tumor characteristics and performing surgeon were not predictors for CPM, however, patients were more likely to undergo CPM if they received reconstruction of the ipsilateral breast with IBTR.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that age, BMI, genetic testing and breast reconstruction are factors contributing to CPM decision at the time of IBTR.

Surgical Decision-Making Surrounding Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy: Comparison of Treatment Goals, Preferences, and Psychosocial Outcomes from a Multicenter Survey of Breast Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

Differences in patient characteristics and decision-making preferences have been described between those who elect breast-conserving surgery (BCS), unilateral mastectomy (UM), or contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) for breast cancer. However, it is not known whether preferred and actual decision-making roles differ across these surgery types, or whether surgery choice reflects a woman's goals or achieves desired outcomes.

METHODS

Women diagnosed with stage 0-III unilateral breast cancer across eight large medical centers responded to a mailed questionnaire regarding treatment decision-making goals, roles, and outcomes. These data were linked to electronic medical records. Differences were assessed using descriptive analyses and logistic regression.

RESULTS

There were 750 study participants: 60.1% BCS, 17.9% UM, and 22.0% CPM. On multivariate analysis, reducing worry about recurrence was a more important goal for surgery in the CPM group than the others. Although women's preferred role in the treatment decision did not differ by surgery, the CPM group was more likely to report taking a more-active-than-preferred role than the BCS group. On multivariate analysis that included receipt of additional surgery, posttreatment worry about both ipsilateral and contralateral recurrence was higher in the BCS group than the CPM group (both p < 0.001). The UM group was more worried than the CPM group about contralateral recurrence only (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with CPM were more likely to report being able to reduce worry about recurrence as a very important goal for surgery. They were also the least worried about ipsilateral breast recurrence and contralateral breast cancer almost two years postdiagnosis.

Factors involved in treatment decision making for women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ: A qualitative study

Whilst some of the diversity in management of women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) may be explained by tumour characteristics, the role of patient preference and the factors underlying those preferences have been less frequently examined. We have used a descriptive qualitative study to explore treatment decisions for a group of Australian women diagnosed with DCIS through mammographic screening. Semi-structured telephone interviews were performed with 16 women diagnosed with DCIS between January 2012 and December 2018, recruited through the LifePool dataset (a subset of BreastScreen participants who have agreed to participate in research). Content analysis using deductive coding identified three themes: participants did not have a clear understanding of their diagnosis or prognosis; reported involvement in decision making about management varied; specific factors including the psychosexual impact of mastectomy and perceptions of radiotherapy, could act as barriers or facilitators to specific decisions about treatment. The treatment the women received was not simply determined by the characteristics of their disease. Interaction with the managing clinician was pivotal, however many other factors played a part in individual decisions. Recognising that decisions are not purely a function of disease characteristics is important for both women with DCIS and the clinicians who care for them.

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in the setting of breast cancer diagnosis and their insurance coverage in the United States

BACKGROUND

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) is more common in the United States than the rest of the world. However, the benefit of this procedure is still under question in many breast cancer scenarios. CPM utilization in the United States is in part dependent on a patient's health insurance coverage of breast oncology surgery and any desired reconstruction. However, there are great discrepancies in the coverage provided by insurers.

METHODS

The authors conducted a cross-sectional analysis of insurance policies for a CPM in the setting of diagnosed breast cancer. One hundred companies were selected based on their state enrollment and market share. Their policies were identified through a Web-based search and telephone interviews, and their medical necessity criteria were extracted.

RESULTS

Of the 100 companies assessed, 36 (36%) had a policy for CPM. Within those, significantly more provided coverage than denied the procedure (72% vs. 25%, p < 0.0001), with the remainder providing case-by-case coverage. Eleven criteria were identified from preauthorized policies, the most common prerequisite was breast cancer diagnosis under 45 years old (n = 9, 35%). Most policies did not differentiate between gender in their policies (n = 25, 69%), but of those that did, 100% (n = 11) provided coverage for men and women, with 82% (n = 9) requiring further criteria from the female patients.

CONCLUSION

The coverage of CPM in the United States varies from complete denial to unrestricted approval. This may be due to conflicting reports in the literature as to the utility of the procedure. The decision to undergo this procedure must be taken with thoughtful consideration and the support of a multidisciplinary approach.

Prospective assessment of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy decision-making in women with average risk: an application of perceptual mapping

Women with early-stage unilateral breast cancer and no familial or genetic risk factors are increasingly electing contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM), despite the lack of evidence demonstrating improved outcomes. To better understand and extend the literature focused on treatment decision-making, a survey was conducted among women with early-stage breast cancer and no associated risk factors, who were in the process of making a surgical decision. This prospective study sought to expand our understanding of the factors that influence patients' decision to have CPM, with the goal of providing healthcare providers with useful guidance in supporting breast cancer patients who are making treatment decisions. Data were collected for this prospective study through an internet survey. Results were analyzed using perceptual mapping, a technique that provides visual insight into the importance of specific variables to groups of women making different surgical decisions, not available through conventional analyses. Results suggest that women more likely to elect CPM demonstrate greater worry about breast cancer through experiences with others and feel the need to take control of their health through selection of the most aggressive treatment option. The information obtained offers guidance for the development of targeted intervention and counsel that will support patients' ability to make high quality, informed decisions.

Preoperative diagnosis of BRCA1/2 mutation impacts decision-making for risk-reducing mastectomy in breast cancer patients

Decision to undergo risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM) needs to consider several factors, including patient's preference, surgeon's preference, family history, and genetic predisposition. The aim of this study was to examine whether preoperative diagnosis of BRCA1/2 mutation status could influence surgical decision-making in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. We retrospectively reviewed ipsilateral breast cancer patients with BRCA1/2 mutation who underwent primary surgery between January 2008 and November 2019 at a single institution in Korea. Of 344 eligible patients, 140 (40.7%) patients were aware of their mutation status 'prior to surgery', while 204 (59.3%) did not. Contralateral RRM rate was significantly higher in the group with BRCA1/2 mutation status identified 'prior to surgery' compared to the group with mutation status identified 'after surgery' [45.0% (63/140) vs. 2.0% (4/204)] (p < 0.001). Reduced turnaround time of BRCA1/2 testing (p < 0.001) and the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p < 0.001) were associated with BRCA1/2 mutation status identified prior to surgery. Although not statistically significant, higher incidence of developing contralateral breast cancer for BRCA1/2 mutation carriers who underwent ipsilateral surgery-only compared to those who underwent contralateral RRM was observed [12.1% (95% CI: 7.7-17.7%)] (p = 0.1618). Preoperative diagnosis of BRCA1/2 mutation could impact surgical decision-making for breast cancer patients to undergo risk-reducing surgery at the time of initial surgery.

B-Sure: a randomized pilot trial of an interactive web-based decision support aid versus usual care in average-risk breast cancer patients considering contralateral prophylactic mastectomy

The use of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) is increasing among breast cancer patients who are at average or "sporadic" risk for contralateral breast cancer. Because CPM provides no survival benefit for these patients, it is not medically recommended for them. Decision support aids may facilitate more informed, higher quality CPM decision. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of B-Sure, an online decision support aid to facilitate informed decisions regarding CPM, and to compare the impact of B-Sure in increasing CPM knowledge, reducing decisional conflict, and increasing preparedness to make the CPM decision among breast cancer patients at sporadic risk who are considering CPM. Ninety-three patients with unilateral, nonhereditary breast cancer considering CPM completed a baseline survey, were randomized to receive B-Sure or Usual care, and completed a 4-week follow-up survey assessing decisional conflict, preparedness to make the CPM decision, and CPM knowledge as well as self-efficacy, perceived risk, worry, CPM motivations, and the surgical decision. Study participation was high. B-Sure was viewed by almost 80% of the participants and was evaluated positively. At follow-up, patients assigned to B-Sure reported significantly higher clarity regarding the personal values relevant to the CPM decision and higher knowledge about CPM. B-Sure had smaller effects on other aspects of decisional conflict. B-Sure improved CPM knowledge and reduced decisional conflict. Patients considering CPM may benefit from an online decision support aid, but may be sensitive to approaches that they perceive as biased against CPM.

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ in Young Women: Increasing Rates of Mastectomy and Variability in Endocrine Therapy Use

BACKGROUND

Young women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) represent a unique cohort given considerations for future risk reduction and treatment effects on fertility and quality of life. We evaluated national patterns of care in the treatment of young women and the impact of those treatments on overall survival (OS).

METHODS

Women younger than 50 years of age diagnosed with pure DCIS from 2004 to 2016 in the National Cancer Database (NCDB) were identified. Clinical, demographic, and choice of local therapy are summarized and trended over time. OS was analyzed using Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

A total of 52,150 women were identified, and the most common surgical treatment was breast-conservation surgery (BCS; 59%). Bilateral mastectomy (BM) increased in frequency from 2004 to 2016 (11-27%; p < 0.001). In women < 40 years of age, BM (39%) surpassed BCS (35%) in 2010 with a continued upward trend. On multivariable analysis, no OS benefit of BM (hazard ratio [HR] 0.99, p = 0.90) or unilateral mastectomy (UM; HR 0.98, p = 0.80) was observed when compared with BCS + radiation therapy (RT). Inferior OS was seen with BCS, Black race, estrogen receptor (ER)-negative, and tumor ≥ 2.5 cm (p ≤ 0.006). In ER+ patients, there was a significant difference in endocrine therapy (ET) use between BM (11%), UM (33%), and BCS (28%) compared with BCS + RT (64%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The use of BM for DCIS is increasing in younger patients and now exceeds breast-conservation approaches in women < 40 years of age with no evidence of improved OS. Among ER+ patients, the rates of ET are lower in the BM, UM, and BCS-alone groups compared with BCS + RT.

Variations in Persistent Use of Low-Value Breast Cancer Surgery

Importance

Through the Choosing Wisely campaign, surgical specialties identified 4 low-value breast cancer operations. Preliminary data suggest varying rates of deimplementation and have identified patient-level and clinician-level determinants of continued overuse. However, little information exists about facility-level variation or determinants of differential deimplementation.

Objective

To identify variation and determinants of persistent use of low-value breast cancer surgical care.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Retrospective cohort study in which reliability-adjusted facility rates of each procedure were calculated using random-intercept hierarchical logistic regression before and after evidence demonstrated that each procedure was unnecessary. The National Cancer Database is a prospective cancer registry of patients encompassing approximately 70% of all new cancer diagnoses from more than 1500 facilities in the United States. Data were analyzed from November 2019 to August 2020. The registry included women 18 years and older diagnosed as having breast cancer between 2004 and 2016 and meeting inclusion criteria for each Choosing Wisely recommendation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Rate of each low-value breast cancer procedure based on facility type and breast cancer volume categories before and after the release of data supporting each procedure's omission.

Results

The total cohort included 920 256 women with a median age of 63 years. Overall, 86% self-identified as White, 10% as Black, 3% as Asian, and 4.5% as Hispanic. Most women in this cohort were insured (51% private and 47% public), were living in a metropolitan or urban area (88% and 11%, respectively), and originated from the top half of income-earning households (65.5%). While there was significant deimplementation of axillary lymph node dissection and lumpectomy reoperation in response to guidelines supporting omission of these procedures, rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy in older women increased during the study period. Academic research programs and high-volume facilities overall demonstrated the greatest reduction in use of these low-value procedures. There was significant interfacility variation for each low-value procedure. Facility-level axillary lymph node dissection rates ranged from 7% to 47%, lumpectomy reoperation rates ranged from 3% to 62%, contralateral prophylactic mastectomy rates ranged from 9% to 67%, and sentinel lymph node biopsy rates ranged from 25% to 97%. Pearson correlation coefficient for each combination of 2 of the 4 procedures was less than 0.11, suggesting that hospitals were not consistent in their deimplementation performance across all 4 procedures. Many were high outliers in one procedure but low outliers in another.

Conclusions and Relevance

Interfacility variation demonstrates a performance gap and an opportunity for formal deimplementation efforts targeting each procedure. Several facility-level characteristics were associated with differential deimplementation and performance.

Bilateral Mastectomy in Women With Unilateral Breast Cancer: A Review

Importance

Rates of bilateral mastectomy continue to increase in average-risk women with unilateral in situ and invasive breast cancer. Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy rates increased from 5% to 12% of all operations for breast cancer in the US from 2004 to 2012. Among women having mastectomy, rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy have increased from less than 2% in 1998 to 30% in 2012.

Observations

The increased use of breast magnetic resonance imaging and genetic testing has marginally increased the number of candidates for bilateral mastectomy. Most bilateral mastectomies are performed on women who are at no special risk for contralateral cancer. The true risk of contralateral breast cancer is not associated with the decision for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy; rather, the clinical factors associated with the probability of distant recurrence are associated with bilateral mastectomy. Several changes in society and health care delivery appear to act concurrently and synergistically. First, the anxiety engendered by a fear of cancer recurrence is focused on the contralateral cancer because this is most easily conceptualized and provides a ready target that can be acted upon. Second, the modern woman with breast cancer is supported by the surgeon and the social community of breast cancer survivors. Surgeons want to respect patient autonomy, despite guidelines discouraging bilateral mastectomy, and most women have their expenses covered by a third-party payer. Satisfaction with the results is high, but the association with improved psychosocial well-being remains to be fully understood.

Conclusions and Relevance

Reducing the use of medically unnecessary contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in women with nonhereditary, unilateral breast cancer requires a social change that addresses patient-, physician-, cultural-, and systems-level enabling factors. Such a transformation begins with educating clinicians and patients. The concerns of women who want preventive contralateral mastectomy must be explored, and women need to be informed of the anticipated benefits (or lack thereof) and risks. Areas requiring further study are considered.

The Angelina Jolie effect: Contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy trends in patients at increased risk of breast cancer

Contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy (CRRM) rates have tripled over the last 2 decades. Reasons for this are multi-factorial, with those harbouring a pathogenic variant in the BRCA1/2 gene having the greatest survival benefit. On May 14th, 2013, Angelina Jolie shared the news of her bilateral risk-reducing mastectomy (BRRM), on the basis of her BRCA1 pathogenic variant status. We evaluated the impact of this news on rates of CRRM in women with increased risk for developing breast cancer after being diagnosed with unilateral breast cancer. The prospective cohort study included all women with at least a moderate lifetime risk of developing breast cancer who attended our family history clinic (1987–2019) and were subsequently diagnosed with unilateral breast cancer. Rates of CRRM were then compared between patients diagnosed with breast cancer before and after Angelina Jolie’s announcement (pre- vs. post-AJ). Of 386 breast cancer patients, with a mean age at diagnosis of 48 ± 8 years, 268 (69.4%) were diagnosed in the pre-AJ period, and 118 (30.6%) in the post-AJ period. Of these, 123 (31.9%) underwent CRRM, a median 42 (interquartile range: 11–54) days after the index cancer surgery. Rates of CRRM doubled following AJ’s news, from 23.9% pre-AJ to 50.0% post AJ (p < 0.001). Rates of CRRM were found to decrease with increasing age at breast cancer (p < 0.001) and tumour TNM stage (p = 0.040), and to increase with the estimated lifetime risk of breast cancer (p < 0.001) and tumour grade (p = 0.015) on univariable analysis. After adjusting for these factors, the step-change increase in CRRM rates post-AJ remained significant (odds ratio: 9.61, p < 0.001). The AJ effect appears to have been associated with higher rates of CRRM amongst breast cancer patients with increased cancer risk. CRRM rates were highest amongst younger women and those with the highest lifetime risk profile. Clinicians need to be aware of how media news can impact on the delivery of cancer related services. Communicating objective assessment of risk is important when counselling women on the merits of risk-reducing surgery.

Influential Factors on Risk-reduction Mastectomy in a High-risk Breast Cancer Population With Genetic Predispositions

BACKGROUND

Carriers of deleterious mutations in breast cancer predisposition genes are presented with critical choices regarding cancer risk management. Risk-reduction mastectomy is a major preventative strategy in this population. Understanding the decision-making process for prophylactic mastectomy is essential in patient-centered care for high-risk carriers and patients with breast cancer. We sought to provide insight into influential factors underlying preventative surgery decisions among individuals with high breast cancer risk.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of pathogenic carriers of high-risk breast cancer genes who presented to the Moffitt GeneHome clinic between March 2017 and June 2020. Associations between preventative mastectomy choice and influence variables were analyzed via unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Of 258 high-risk mutation carriers, 104 (40.3%) underwent risk-reduction mastectomy. A significantly higher proportion of mastectomy patients reported prior history of breast cancer (68.9% vs. 16.5%; P < .001) and history of other risk-reduction or noncancer-related surgeries (61.7% vs. 25.8%; P < .001). Significant predictors affecting surgery decision included previous breast cancer history (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 10.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.59-19.63; P < .0001), other risk-reduction or noncancer-related surgical history (aOR, 4.65; 95% CI, 2.28-9.47; P < .0001), and age at presentation to the genetics clinic (< 35 years old: aOR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.04-7.4; P = .042; 35-55 years old: aOR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.19-5.18; P = .016).

CONCLUSIONS

Preventive mastectomy decisions are highly personal and complex. In our sample, we observed prior history or concurrent breast cancer, history of other risk-reduction surgery or noncancer-related surgery, and younger age at presentation to the GeneHome clinic to be predictive of mastectomy uptake.

Laterality and Patient-Reported Outcomes following Autologous Breast Reconstruction with Free Abdominal Tissue: An 8-Year Examination of BREAST-Q Data

BACKGROUND

Despite the rise in rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy, few studies have used patient-reported outcomes to assess satisfaction between unilateral and bilateral breast reconstruction with autologous tissue. The purpose of this study was to investigate patient satisfaction and quality of life following autologous reconstruction to determine whether differences exist between unilateral and bilateral reconstructions to better guide clinical decision-making.

METHODS

The current study examined prospectively collected BREAST-Q results following abdominal free flap breast reconstruction procedures performed at a tertiary academic medical center from 2009 to 2017. The reconstruction module of the BREAST-Q was used to assess outcomes between laterality groups (unilateral versus bilateral) at 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and more than 3 years.

RESULTS

Overall, 405 patients who underwent autologous breast reconstruction completed the BREAST-Q. Cross-sectional analysis at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years revealed similar satisfaction scores between groups; however, bilateral reconstruction patients demonstrated higher satisfaction scores at more than 3 years (p = 0.04). Bilateral reconstruction patients reported lower scores of abdominal well-being at 1 year, 2 years, and more than 3 years (p = 0.01, p = 0.03, and p = 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that satisfaction with breasts does not differ with the laterality of the autologous reconstruction up to 3 years postoperatively but may diverge thereafter. Bilateral reconstruction patients, however, have lower satisfaction with the abdominal donor site. These data can be used in preoperative counseling, informed consent, and expectations management in patients considering contralateral prophylactic mastectomy.

Surgical Treatment after Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy in Young Women with Breast Cancer: Results from a Prospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate eligibility for breast-conserving surgery (BCS) pre- and post-neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST), and trends in the surgical treatment of young breast cancer patients.

BACKGROUND

Young women with breast cancer are more likely to present with larger tumors and aggressive phenotypes, and may benefit from NST. Little is known about how response to NAC influences surgical decisions in young women.

METHODS

The Young Women's Breast Cancer Study (YWS), a multicenter prospective cohort of women diagnosed with breast cancer at age ≤40, enrolled 1302 patients from 2006 to 2016. Disease characteristics, surgical recommendations, and reasons for choosing mastectomy among BCS-eligible patients were obtained through the medical record. Trends in use of NST, rate of clinical and pathologic complete response (cCR and pCR), and surgery were also assessed.

RESULTS

Of 1117 women with unilateral stage I-III breast cancer, 315 (28%) received NST. Pre-NST, 26% were BCS eligible, 17% were borderline eligible, and 55% were ineligible. After NST, BCS eligibility increased from 26% to 42% (p < 0.0001). Among BCS-eligible patients after NST (n = 133), 41% chose mastectomy with reasons being patient preference (53%), BRCA or TP53 mutation (35%) and family history (5%). From 2006 to 2016, the rates of NST (p = 0.0012), cCR (p < 0.0001) and bilateral mastectomy (p < 0.0001) increased, but the rate of BCS did not increase (p = 0.34).

CONCLUSION

While the proportion of young women eligible for BCS increased after NST, many patients choose mastectomy, suggesting that surgical decisions are often driven by factors beyond extent of disease and treatment response.

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy at the time of delayed microvascular breast reconstruction adversely affects patient-reported outcomes: A retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

An increasing number of women with unilateral breast cancer are seeking bilateral mastectomies and reconstruction. At our centre, many women who have undergone previous unilateral therapeutic mastectomy request contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) at the time of delayed reconstruction. These mixed timing reconstructions are particularly challenging as patients have an immediate reconstruction on one side and delayed reconstruction on the other, which may result in asymmetry. This retrospective cohort study evaluates patient-reported satisfaction following mixed timing breast reconstruction and compares them to unilateral delayed reconstruction.

METHODS

One hundred and forty-one patients who underwent successful deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction and completed baseline and 12-month BREAST-Qs were included in the study. Patient-reported outcomes following bilateral mixed timing reconstruction (n = 56) were compared to those of unilateral delayed reconstruction (UDR) without CPM (n = 85).

RESULTS

Women who sought CPM were significantly younger and had lower annual incomes when compared with those who underwent unilateral reconstruction. Mixed timing reconstruction was associated with significantly lower levels of breast satisfaction and psychosocial function as compared to UDR at 12 months post-operatively. BREAST-Q scores (18 months) were available for 75 patients in the cohort and indicated that this decreased breast satisfaction and psychosocial impairment was sustained in the longer-term.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who seek CPM at the time of delayed reconstruction should be advised that this is associated with lower levels of breast satisfaction and psychosocial well-being as compared to unilateral delayed breast reconstruction.

Choice of local therapy for young women with early-stage breast cancer who have young-aged children

BACKGROUND

Decision making regarding the initial treatment of women with breast cancer is complicated. In the current study, the authors examined the relationship between treatment choices and their children's ages among young women with early-stage breast cancer.

METHODS

Using the MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters database, the authors identified women aged 20 to 50 years who underwent lumpectomy or mastectomy for early-stage breast cancer between 2008 and 2014. Predictors of compliance with radiotherapy after undergoing lumpectomy and of undergoing mastectomy were determined using multinomial logistic regression. The authors conducted sensitivity analyses to explore the impact of the number of young-aged children and a reduction in the sample size in 2014 due to the attrition of health plans contributing to MarketScan.

RESULTS

A total of 21,052 women were included in the current analysis. Among women with at least 1 child aged <7 years, the adjusted rate of lumpectomy was 59.9%; approximately 22% of these women did not receive radiotherapy. Compared with women undergoing lumpectomy plus radiotherapy, women with at least 1 child aged <7 years or aged 7 to 12 years were 25% and 16%, respectively, more likely to undergo lumpectomy alone compared with women with no children aged <18 years (P = .002 and P = .012, respectively) and 64% and 37%, respectively, more likely to undergo mastectomy (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Among privately insured women with breast cancer, having young children was found to be strongly associated with the omission of postlumpectomy radiotherapy or undergoing mastectomy. Having >1 young-aged child further amplified these associations. The findings of the current study suggested that caring for young children may present unique challenges to young women with breast cancer.

A comparative study for the rate of adverse outcomes in unilateral and bilateral abdominal flap breast reconstruction: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Adverse outcomes after unilateral vs bilateral breast reconstruction involve an unknown level of risk that warrants thorough investigation.

METHODS

To address this research need, PubMed, Ovid, Medline, EMBASE, and Scopus databases were searched through systematically from January 1, 1990, to January 1, 2019 to retrieve the relevant studies on the risk of postoperative complications after unilateral vs bilateral abdominal flap breast reconstruction. According to the pre-designed inclusion criteria, available data were extracted from the relevant studies, and then analyzed comparatively in order to identify the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) applying either a random or a fixed effects model.

RESULTS

Eventually, 20 studies involving 8122 female subjects met the inclusion criteria. It was found that unilateral reconstruction involved a significantly higher risk of flap loss (RR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.21-2.00; P < .05) and fat necrosis (RR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.23-2.09; P < .05) compared to bilateral reconstruction, while bilateral reconstruction involved a greater risk of abdominal hernia/bulge (RR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.25-2.24; P < .05). The risk was found to be higher following bilateral free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (fTRAM) flaps in comparison with deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps (RR: 2.62, 95% CI: 1.33-5.15; P < .05).

CONCLUSION

The risk of postoperative flap complications in unilateral breast reconstruction is significantly higher than that in bilateral reconstruction. Contrarily, the abdominal complications were significantly higher in the bilateral group vs the unilateral group. Meanwhile, the risk of abdominal hernia/bulge complication after bilateral breast reconstruction was significantly higher with fTRAM vs DIEP. Therefore, DIEP flaps are recommended in priority for bilateral breast reconstruction, unless specifically contraindicated.

Differences in physician opinions about controversial issues surrounding contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM): A survey of physicians from accredited breast centers in the United States

BACKGROUND

Indications and insurance coverage for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) and CPM as a quality measure are controversial. Few studies have examined physician opinions on these issues.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey of multi-specialty physicians at the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers from 2017-2018 examined opinions on insurance coverage for CPM, CPM as a quality measure, and indications for CPM. A multivariate logistic regression was used to assess physician and facility factors associated with likelihood to recommend CPM.

RESULTS

Of 2412 physicians, 1226 responded from 382 facilities for a physician response rate of 50.8%. There were 300 (24.5%) medical oncologists, 316 (25.8%) radiation oncologists, 248 (20.2%) plastic surgeons, and 322 (26.3%) oncologic or general surgeons. Three hundred and ninety-eight (37%) physicians favor insurance coverage for all patients and 520 (46.6%) for patients at average CBC risk. Four hundred and fifty (40%) of all physicians felt physician specific rates of CPM should be a hospital quality measure. BRCA deleterious mutation carrier status was the most common indication to recommend CPM (n = 1043; 92%) and 684 (60.2%) physicians discourage CPM for average contralateral risk (CBC) patients. After adjusting for physician and facility factors, the only significant predictor of higher likelihood to recommend CPM for average CBC risk patients were plastics surgeons (OR = 8.3 (95%CI 2.4-29.1)) P = .0009).

CONCLUSION

There is consensus among physicians on the most appropriate indication for CPM but opinions vary on CPM as a quality measure and insurance coverage for CPM. These findings can help guide discussions on CPM among a multidisciplinary team of physicians.

Barriers and Facilitators to De-Implementation of the Choosing Wisely® Guidelines for Low-Value Breast Cancer Surgery

BACKGROUND

To address overuse of unnecessary practices, several surgical organizations have participated in the Choosing Wisely^® campaign and identified four breast cancer surgical procedures as unnecessary. Despite evidence demonstrating no survival benefit for all four, evidence suggests only two have been substantially de-implemented. Our objective was to understand why surgeons stop performing certain unnecessary cancer operations but not others and how best to de-implement entrenched and emerging unnecessary procedures.

METHODS

We sampled surgeons who treat breast cancer in a variety of practice types and geographic regions in the United States. Using a semi-structured guide, we conducted telephone interviews (n = 18) to elicit attitudes and understand practices relating to the four identified breast cancer procedures in the Choosing Wisely^® campaign. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and anonymized. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive and deductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

For the two procedures successfully de-implemented, surgeons described a high level of confidence in the data supporting the recommendations. In contrast, surgeons frequently described a lack of familiarity or skepticism toward the recommendation to avoid sentinel-node biopsy in women ≥ 70 years of age and the influence of other collaborating oncology providers as justification for continued use. Regarding contralateral prophylactic mastectomy, surgeons consistently agreed with the recommendation that this was unnecessary, yet reported continued utilization due to the value placed on patient autonomy and preference.

CONCLUSIONS

With a growing focus on the elimination of ineffective, unproven or low value practices, it is imperative that the behavioral determinants are understood and targeted with specific interventions to decrease utilization rapidly.

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in breast cancer: what to discuss with patients

Introduction: The contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) rate in the U.S. has been steadily increasing. This is of particular concern because many women who undergo this procedure are candidates for breast-conserving surgery.Areas covered: CPM's medical benefit is related to the risk of contralateral cancer development and whether CPM provides a survival benefit. Contralateral cancer rates have decreased, and CPM does not provide a survival benefit. Other potential benefits of the procedure may be improved quality of life; these data are reviewed. Research efforts have been undertaken to better understand the decision-making process of patients who consider, and ultimately undergo, this procedure.Expert opinion: Decisional traits, personal values, the desire for peace of mind, and the desire to obtain breast symmetry are important factors that drive a woman's decision to undergo CPM. Additionally, many patients lack the knowledge on how different types of breast surgery impact outcomes. To improve the shared decision-making process, a stepwise approach to address possible misconceptions, and clarify the real risks/benefits of this procedure should be utilized. A clear recommendation (for/against) should be made for every patient with newly diagnosed breast cancer who considers CPM. Communication tools to assist patients and surgeons in this process are sorely needed.

Axillary management for young women with breast cancer varies between patients electing breast-conservation therapy or mastectomy

PURPOSE

Axillary treatment strategies for the young woman with early-stage, clinically node-negative breast cancer undergoing upfront surgery found to have 1-3 positive sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) differ significantly after BCT and mastectomy. Here we compare axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and regional nodal irradiation (NRI) rates between women electing breast-conservation therapy (BCT) versus mastectomy.

METHODS

From 2010 to 2016, women age < 50 years with clinical T1-T2N0 breast cancer having upfront surgery and found to have a positive SLN were identified. ALND and/or NRI receipt were compared between groups.

RESULTS

192 women undergoing BCT and 165 undergoing mastectomy were identified (median age: 44 years). 5.2% (10/192) of women undergoing BCT had an ALND versus 87% (144/165) of women undergoing mastectomy (p < 0.01). NRI was given to 48% (78/165) of mastectomy patients compared to 30% (57/192) of BCT patients (p < 0.01). Of the 75 mastectomy patients with 1-2 total positive lymph nodes after completion ALND, 44% received NRI. Women undergoing mastectomy were significantly more likely to receive both ALND and NRI than women undergoing BCS (45% vs 6%, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Young cT1-2N0 breast cancer patients found to have 1-3 SLN metastases received ALND, NRI, and combined ALND/NRI more frequently if they elected mastectomy over BCT. Use of both ALND and postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) in this population could be reduced in the future by omitting ALND in patients for whom the need for PMRT is clear with the finding of 1-2 SLN metastases.

Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy in Women with Unilateral Breast Cancer Who Are Genetic Carriers, Have a Strong Family History or Are just Young at Presentation

The uptake of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy is rising with increasing trends that are possibly highest in the USA. Whilst its role is generally accepted in carriers of recognized high-risk predisposition genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 when the affected individual is premenopausal, controversy surrounds the benefit in less understood risk-profile clinical scenarios. This comprehensive review explores the current evidence underpinning the role of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy and its impact on contralateral breast cancer risk and survival in three distinct at-risk groups affected by unilateral breast cancer: known genetic carriers, those with strong familial risk but no demonstrable genetic mutation and women who are of young age at presentation. The review supports the role of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in "high risk" groups where the evidence suggests a reduction in contralateral breast cancer risk. However, this benefit is less evident in women who are just young at presentation or those who have strong family history but no demonstrable genetic mutation. A multidisciplinary and personalized approach to support individuals in a shared-decision making process is recommended.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Breast Cancer in Young Women

OPINION STATEMENT

Despite the increase of breast cancer incidence with age, approximately 7 to 10% ofwomen diagnosed with breast cancer are younger than the age 40. This subgroup ofpatients has different risk factors, tumour biology, clinical outcomes, and specific psy- chosocial issues, such as fertility preservation, family planning, and job reintegration. However, age alone should not be the main consideration when choosing the aggressive- ness of the treatment, as other factors must be considered, including the biologic aggressiveness of the tumour, potential long-term toxicities, and the preferences of the patient. Fertility preservation techniques should be discussed with the patient before starting any cancer treatment. Despite the significant percentage of breast cancer patients younger than age 40, fewclinical studies have specifically investigated disease characteristics and outcomes of this population, and most therapies routinely administered to these younger women were tested in older patients. Moreover, young women who have breast cancer are at a greater risk of sexual and psychological distress, and clinicians should address these issues in order to properly support patients during the long diagnostic and therapeutic journey. Consequently, it is essential to follow diagnostic and treatment guidelines specificallyaddressed to young women. Additional specific procedures should be followed to treat pregnant patients with breast cancer.

MRI Evaluation of the Contralateral Breast in Women with Recently Diagnosed Breast Cancer: 2-Year Follow-up

Objective

The American College of Radiology Imaging Network Trial 6667 showed that MRI can detect cancer in the contralateral breast that is missed by mammography and clinical examination at the time of the initial breast cancer diagnosis, based on 1-year follow-up. This study is a continuation of the trial that evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of MRI for contralateral breast cancer after 2 years of follow-up.

Methods

In total, 969 women with a diagnosis of unilateral breast cancer and no clinical or imaging abnormalities in the contralateral breast underwent breast MRI. The cancer status of all participants was monitored for 2 years after the initial MRI. Follow-up included documentation of any clinical, imaging, or interventional procedures performed. A study participant was considered positive for cancer if she had a tissue diagnosis of in situ or invasive breast cancer in the contralateral breast within 730 days of her initial MRI.

Results

Three additional cancers were diagnosed in the study population in the second year of the trial. The diagnostic yield for MRI for the 2-year period was 3% (31/969). After 2 years of follow-up, breast MRI has a sensitivity of 86% and specificity of 88% for detection of contralateral breast cancer. Its negative predictive value was 99%, and its positive predictive value was 22%. These values did not change significantly from the 1-year data.

Conclusion

A negative contralateral breast MRI has a very high and reliable negative predictive value over 2 years, and, therefore, is helpful in managing and counseling patients during the period of initial diagnosis and early treatment.

Effects of High Anxiety Scores on Surgical and Overall Treatment Plan in Patients with Breast Cancer Treated with Neoadjuvant Therapy

BACKGROUND

Patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer and high levels of anxiety often pursue more aggressive surgical interventions. The neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) setting could provide a window of opportunity to address patients' anxiety. However, the impact of anxiety on surgical decisions in the setting of NAT for breast cancer has not been previously studied.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective database of patients with breast cancer treated with NAT at BC Cancer was used to identify patients treated with NAT and subsequent surgical resection. Patients with bilateral breast cancer or BRCA mutations or those referred to the hereditary cancer program were excluded. An anxiety score of 0-3 was assigned based on responses to the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and Psychosocial Screen for Cancer. Clinicopathological information and treatment data were retrieved and cross-referenced between the low-anxiety (scores 0-1) and high-anxiety (scores 2-3) cohorts.

RESULTS

From 2012 to 2016, 203 patients met eligibility criteria. Of these, 93 patients (45.8%) had low anxiety and 110 patients (54.2%) had high anxiety. Overall, 161 patients (79.3%) had locally advanced cancers; no differences in stage, grade, or biomarkers were found between the low- and high-anxiety cohorts. Patients with high self-reported anxiety at initial consultation were younger (mean 56 years vs. 60 years; p = .011) and more likely to undergo mastectomy for breast-conserving surgery-eligible disease and bilateral mastectomy for unilateral disease compared with those with low anxiety (37.3% vs. 18.3%; likelihood ratio 9.15; p = .002). No significant differences in treatment timelines were identified between the two cohorts.

CONCLUSION

Patients with high anxiety at initial consultation were nine times more likely to undergo aggressive surgery compared with patients with low anxiety. These findings underscore the need for early identification of patients who may benefit from tailored supportive and educational services to address sources of anxiety and knowledge gaps.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The prevalence of anxiety among women with newly diagnosed breast cancer is being increasingly acknowledged. However, health care providers have not fully appreciated the impact of anxiety on the surgical management of patients with early-stage breast cancer. This study highlights the importance of self-reported anxiety on surgical management. The preoperative period provides a unique window of opportunity to address sources of anxiety and provide targeted educational materials over a period of 4-6 months, which may ultimately lead to less aggressive surgery when it is not needed.

Assessing the additional surgical risk of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy and immediate breast implant reconstruction

INTRODUCTION

There has been a sharp rise in the rate of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy over the last decade, despite the low incidence of new primary cancers predicted for the contralateral breast. This study compares the postoperative complication rates between the diseased breast treated with mastectomy and the contralateral breast that underwent prophylactic mastectomy, followed by immediate bilateral breast implant reconstruction. We hypothesized that there will be no difference in postoperative outcomes between prophylactic and diseased groups, as the surgical approach would be comparable.

METHODS

After IRB approval, a retrospective chart review identified consecutive unilateral breast cancer patients who underwent bilateral mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction between May 2008 and May 2018 at a tertiary academic medical center. A paired sample t-test and a penalized logic regression model were constructed to identify relationships between breast laterality and outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 1117 patients with unilateral breast cancer who underwent bilateral mastectomy and immediate breast implant reconstruction were identified. Rates of capsular contracture and infection were significantly greater in the diseased breast, while rates of revision were significantly greater in the contralateral prophylactic breast. There were no statistically significant differences between breasts in rates of explant, skin flap necrosis or hematoma. When adjusted for confounding variables, a higher infection rate was observed in the diseased breast.

CONCLUSION

This study detected significant differences in postoperative complication rates between the diseased and prophylactic breasts following bilateral mastectomy and immediate breast implant reconstruction. Postoperative complications occurred more frequently in the diseased breast compared with low rates of complications in the contralateral prophylactic breast. This information is helpful for preoperative decision making, as surgeons and patients carefully weigh the additional risks of contralateral prophylactic procedure.

Practitioner Opinion on Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy: How Do We Steer a Patient-Driven Discussion?

BACKGROUND

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) is increasing despite a recent statement from The American Society of Breast Surgeons discouraging average-risk women with unilateral breast cancer (BC) from undergoing CPM. The objective of our study was to conduct a needs assessment of BC health practitioners to gather information about their opinions, attitudes, and experiences surrounding CPM.

METHODS

The Ottawa Decision Support Framework was the theoretical framework for the development of the interview guide. Semistructured interviews were conducted until data saturation with a convenience sample of 16 BC practitioners (Ontario, Canada), including oncologic and reconstructive surgeons, medical oncologists, and nurse navigators.

RESULTS

Nearly all practitioners identified the discussion regarding CPM as patient-initiated. The majority of practitioners (13/16) described their role as supporting the patient in the decision-making process. Practitioners described educating patients on the lack of survival benefit and in general discouraging CPM. Practitioners agreed that most patients demonstrate decisional conflict (11/16) as a barrier to decision-making, and it is a challenge to realign patients' understanding and expectations. Almost all practitioners (15/16) identified a need for information materials to help educate patients on the risks and benefits of CPM and to help realign expectations.

CONCLUSIONS

Practitioners have identified CPM in average-risk women with unilateral BC as a patient-driven phenomenon that is on the rise, despite highlighting the increased risk of complications and lack of survival benefit. Our practitioner needs assessment identifies the need for a dynamic decision aid to help guide the shared decision-making process for practitioners and patients.

Breast Cancer Knowledge and Decisions Made for Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy: A Survey of Surgeons and Women in the General Population

BACKGROUND

Decisions made to undergo contralateral prophylactic mastectomy, in women at low risk for bilateral disease, are often attributed to a lack of knowledge. This study examines the role knowledge plays in determining surgical treatment for unilateral breast cancer made by laywomen and surgeons for themselves or loved ones.

METHODS

The study cohort had three groups: (1) laywomen in the general population, (2) breast surgeons, and (3) plastic surgeons. Laywomen were recruited using Amazon Mechanical Turk Crowd Sourcing. Breast and plastic surgeons from nine states were sent electronic surveys. Demographic and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy-specific data on decisions and knowledge were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Surveys from 1333 laywomen, 198 plastic surgeons, and 142 breast surgeons were analyzed. A significantly greater proportion of laywomen in the general population favored contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (67 percent) relative to plastic (50 percent) and breast surgeons (26 percent) (p < 0.0001). Breast surgeons who chose contralateral prophylactic mastectomy were younger (p = 0.044) and female (0.012). On assessment of knowledge, 78 percent of laywomen had a low level of breast cancer knowledge. Laywomen with higher levels of breast cancer knowledge had lower odds of choosing contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (OR, 0.37; 95 percent CI, 0.28 to 0.49).

CONCLUSIONS

Fewer women are likely to make decisions in favor of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy with better breast cancer-specific education. A knowledge gap likely explains the lower rates with which surgeons choose contralateral prophylactic mastectomy for themselves or loved ones; however, some surgeons who were predominantly young and female favor contralateral prophylactic mastectomy. Improving patient education on surgical options for breast cancer treatment is critical, with well-informed decisions as the goal.

An Evaluation of the Choice for Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy and Patient Concerns About Recurrence in a Reconstructed Cohort

BACKGROUND

Rising contralateral prophylactic mastectomy rates are a subject of national concern. This study assessed (1) factors critical to patients when deciding on contralateral prophylactic mastectomy and (2) patients' quality of life related to concerns about recurrence after unilateral or bilateral breast reconstruction.

METHODS

Patients with stage 0 to III breast cancer who underwent unilateral mastectomy or contralateral prophylactic mastectomy and breast reconstruction at a single institution between 2000 and 2012 were identified. Demographic and clinical data were extracted by chart review. Women's fears about breast cancer recurrence were assessed using the Concerns About Recurrence Scale, and motivational factors for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy were identified using the Decisions for Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy Survey.

RESULTS

Survey responses were received from 157 patients (59%) who underwent unilateral reconstruction and 109 (41%) who underwent bilateral reconstruction. The top 3 reasons for choosing contralateral prophylactic mastectomy were (1) decreasing the risk of contralateral breast disease (97%), (2) peace of mind (96%), and (3) improved survival (93%). Women who chose contralateral prophylactic mastectomy reported significantly greater overall fear and worry compared with the unilateral group, specifically, greater fears of dying and worries about adequately fulfilling roles of daily life (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite no proven survival benefit, women chose contralateral prophylactic mastectomy primarily to optimize oncologic outcomes. Among breast reconstruction patients, women who underwent contralateral prophylactic mastectomy had greater anxiety and overall fear of breast cancer recurrence compared with those who chose unilateral mastectomy. These findings are important to consider when counseling women contemplating contralateral prophylactic mastectomy.

Active Participation in Decision-Making in Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy for Patients With Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND

We sought to determine how patient-physician communication affects patients' decision-making when choosing between contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) and unilateral mastectomy (UM).

METHODS

atients with breast cancer who underwent mastectomy at our institution were approached with a survey regarding patient-physician communication in CPM.

RESULTS

Of 101 patients who completed the survey, 55 underwent CPM (54.5%). Thirty-three patients (33%) stated that their physician recommended UM, six (6%) stated their physician recommended CPM, and 61 (61%) stated they engaged in active participation in decision-making. Most patients whose doctors recommended UM chose UM (78.8%); similarly, 83.3% of those whose doctors recommended CPM chose CPM. Of 39 patients whose doctors recommended a particular surgical option, eight (20.5%) did not follow their doctor's advice. These patients were equally as satisfied with their decisions as those who followed their doctor's advice (P = 0.441). Patients engaging in active participation in decision-making tended to choose CPM (68.3% versus 30.8%, P < 0.001). Patients who did not engage in active participation were similarly satisfied with their decision as those who did (P = 0.286). Twelve patients (12%) stated they preferred their doctor to provide a recommendation, seven (7%) preferred to make the decision on their own, and 81 (81%) preferred to actively participate in their decision-making with the physician.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients tend to follow physicians' recommendation of UM or CPM; patients engaging in SDM tend to choose CPM. Most patients prefer to engage in active participation in decision-making with their physician but were equally satisfied with their surgical decision whether they engaged in active participation or not.

Decisional conflict among breast cancer patients considering contralateral prophylactic mastectomy

OBJECTIVES

The study's goals were to characterize decisional conflict and preparedness for making the decision about having CPM among breast cancer patients considering CPM who do not carry cancer-predisposing mutation and to evaluate correlates of decisional conflict and preparedness.

METHODS

93 women considering CPM completed a survey of decisional conflict and preparedness for the CPM decision, knowledge, perceived risk, self-efficacy, reasons for CPM, input from others and discussion with the doctor about CPM, and cancer worry.

RESULTS

Between 8% and 27% of women endorsed elevated decisional conflict. Most women were satisfied with preparatory information that they were provided. Knowledge was low. Top reasons for choosing CPM were the desire for peace of mind, lowering the chance of another breast cancer, and improving survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Decisional conflict is elevated in a subset of patients considering CPM. A more well-informed decision may be fostered by a comprehensive discussion about CPM with the patient's clinician, fostering self-efficacy in managing cancer worry, and helping patients understand their motivations for CPM.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Clinicians working with breast cancer patients considering CPM should discuss the CPM decision, foster self-efficacy in managing cancer worry, and help patients understand their motivations for the surgery.

Rising rates of bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction following neoadjuvant chemotherapy

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is used to allow more limited breast surgery without compromising local control. We sought to evaluate nationwide surgical trends in patients with operable breast cancer treated with NAC and factors associated with surgical type. We used the National Cancer Database to identify 235,339 women with unilateral T1-3 N0-3 M0 breast cancer diagnosed between 2010 and 2014 and treated with surgery and chemotherapy. Of these, 59,568 patients (25.3%) were treated with NAC. Rates of pathological complete response (pCR) to NAC increased from 33.3% at the start of the study period in 2010 to 46.3% at the end of the period in 2014 (p = 0.02). Rates of breast-conserving surgery (BSC) changed little, from 37.0 to 40.8% (p = 0.22). Although rates of unilateral mastectomy decreased from 43.3 to 34.7% (p = 0.02) and rates of bilateral mastectomy without immediate reconstruction remained similar (11.7-11.5%; p = 0.82), rates of bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction rose from 8.0 to 13.1% (p = 0.02). Patients who were younger, with private/managed care insurance, and diagnosed in more recent years were more likely to achieve pCR; however, these same characteristics were associated with receipt of bilateral mastectomy (vs. BCS). In addition, non-Hispanic white ethnic and higher area education attainment were both associated with bilateral mastectomy. These findings did not differ by age or molecular subtype. Further study of nonclinical factors that influence selection of more extensive surgery despite excellent response to NAC is warranted.

Factors associated with decision to undergo contralateral prophylactic mastectomy versus unilateral mastectomy

BACKGROUND

Factors associated with the decision to pursue unilateral mastectomy (UM) versus contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) in unilateral breast cancer (UBC) patients, and satisfaction with this decision, remain to be elucidated.

METHODS

UBC patients who underwent mastectomy were surveyed regarding factors affecting their surgical decision and satisfaction with the same.

RESULTS

Both UM (n = 46) and CPM (n = 55) patients were satisfied with their surgical decision (mean 4.72 and 4.85 out of 5 on Satisfaction With Decision scale, respectively, p = 0.078). Most CPM patients cited the desire to lower their risk of contralateral breast cancer (96.4%) and the desire for peace of mind (94.5%) as "very important" drivers of their decision; whereas most UM patients felt not wanting to remove a normal breast (67.4%) was a "very important" driver for their decision.

CONCLUSIONS

Both UM and CPM patients reported high satisfaction with their surgical decisions, despite differing reasons for their respective surgeries.

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in young women with breast cancer: a population-based analysis of predictive factors and clinical impact

Background and Objectives

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (cpm) has been increasingly common among women with unilateral invasive breast cancer (ibca) even though the data that support it are limited. Using a population-based cohort, the objectives of the present study were to describe factors predictive of cpm in young women (≤35 years) with ibca and to evaluate the impact of the procedure on mortality.

Methods

All women diagnosed during 1994-2003 and treated with cpm were identified from the Ontario Cancer Registry. Logistic regression was used to identify patient and tumour factors associated with the use of cpm. Multivariate analyses were used to assess the effect of cpm on recurrence and mortality.

Results

Of 614 women identified, 81 underwent cpm (13.2%). On multivariable analysis, factors associated with cpm included negative lymph node status, negative estrogen receptor status, and initial breast-conserving surgery with re-excision. At follow-up, breast cancer-specific mortality was similar for women who did and did not undergo cpm.

Conclusions

Use of cpm in young women with ibca (compared with non-use) was not associated improved breast cancer-specific mortality. Factors found to be predictive of cpm were negative lymph node status, negative estrogen receptor status, and initial breast-conserving surgery followed by re-excision.