Integration of plastic surgery in the course of breast-conserving surgery for cancer to improve cosmetic results and radicality of tumor excision

Oncoplastic versus conventional breast-conserving surgery in breast cancer: a pooled analysis of 6941 female patients

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women. In the past few years, surgical interventions for breast cancer have experienced massive changes from radical excision to conserving approaches. In this study, we aim to compare the two breast surgery interventions, including conventional breast-conserving surgery (CBCS) versus oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery (OPBCS).

METHODS

We searched on PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane till 2 October 2021. All relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies were included. The data were extracted and pooled using Review Manager software (RevMan 5.4).

RESULTS

The pooled meta-analysis of the included studies showed that OPBCS was significantly superior to CBCS in most of the outcomes. Re-excision significantly favoured CBCS (RR = 0.49, 95% CI [0.37, 0.63], P < 0.00001). However, local recurrence (RR = 0.55, 95% CI [0.27, 1.09], P = 0.09), close surgical margins (RR = 0.37, 95% CI [0.14, 1.00], P = 0.05) and end up to the risk of mastectomy (RR = 0.73, 95% CI [0.54, 97], P = 0.06) showed no significant difference between both techniques. Notably, while performing a sensitivity analysis, other outcomes as local recurrence, significantly showed favourable results towards OPBCS. In terms of safety outcomes, there was no significant difference between OPBCS and CBCS.

CONCLUSION

We recommend the oncoplastic approach rather than the conventional one in females with breast cancer. Re-excision rates showed better results following OPBCS.

Assessing the effect of a hands-on oncoplastic surgery training course: A survey of Canadian surgeons

BACKGROUND

The adoption of oncoplastic surgery in North America is poor despite evidence supporting the benefits. Surgeons take courses to acquire oncoplastic techniques, however, the effect of these courses is unknown. This study aimed to assess the impact of a hands-on oncoplastic course on surgeons' comfort with oncoplastic techniques and rate of adoption of these techniques in their practice.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An online 10-question survey was developed and distributed to surgeons who had participated in a hands-on oncoplastic course offered in Ontario, Canada. Categorical data were reported using frequencies and percentages.

RESULTS

A total of 105 surveys were sent out of which 69 attending surgeons responded (response rate: 65.7%). All respondents stated cosmesis was of the utmost importance in breast conserving surgery. The most common oncoplastic techniques they currently use included glandular re-approximation (98.4%), undermining of skin (93.6%), undermining of the nipple areolar complex (63.4%), and de-epithelialization and repositioning of the nipple areola complex (49.2%). Only 26% of respondnets stated they used more advanced techniques such as mammoplasty. Sixty percent of surgeons reported they used oncoplastic techniques in at least half of their cases. Ninety-two percent of respondents stated that the hands-on course increased the amount of oncoplastic techniques in their practice. At least 70% of respondents stated they would do another hands-on course. The main factor that facilitated the uptake of oncoplastic techniques was a better understanding of surgical techniques and planning.

CONCLUSION

A hands-on oncoplastic course helps surgeons adopt oncoplastic surgery techniques into their clinical practice. This teaching model allows surgeons to become comfortable with a variety of techniques. This study supports the relevance of a hands-on oncoplastic course to enhance the availability of safe oncoplastic surgery for breast cancer patients.

Effects of Prophylactic Lipofilling After Radiotherapy Compared to Non-Fat Injected Breasts: A Randomized, Objective Study

BACKGROUND

Patients who are suffering from invasive breast cancer may require post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT). PMRT improves outcomes in breast cancer patients in terms of locoregional recurrence. Preliminary studies indicate that fat injections reduce post-radiation damage of soft tissue and implants.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of prophylactic fat injections on radiated implanted breasts.

METHODS

The authors randomly assigned 60 female patients to either Group A or B. Group A patients received 3 breast fat injections, according to Coleman's technique, after radiotherapy and before expander removal with definitive implant insertion. Group B patients underwent surgery without lipofilling. At each surgical operation, skin biopsies were performed in a specific breast area to evaluate adipose tissue thickness, and a statistical analysis of the thickness variations was performed with the Wilcoxon's sum test. Disability was assessed according to the Late Effects of Normal Tissues-Subjective Objective Management Analytic scale.

RESULTS

The study demonstrates a qualitative and quantitative improvement about tissues after fat injection. This is highlighted by the significant increase in thickness after lipofilling.

CONCLUSIONS

The study, which is based on both clinical and histological findings and is supported by the comparison of a control group with a 1-year follow-up, demonstrates that fat injections reduce tissue radio damage, improving reconstructive surgery outcomes and quality of life.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2

Lateral thoracoaxillar dermal-fat flap for breast conserving surgery: the changes of the indication and long-term results

BACKGROUND

Oncoplastic breast conserving surgery had been challenged to achieve both of local control and the cosmetic appearance of preserved breast. We developed the lateral thoracoaxillar dermal-fat flap (LTDF) as an oncoplastic procedure to fill the defect of breast-conserving surgery in 1999.

METHODS

A total of 2338 breast cancer patients underwent surgery from January, 2000 to December, 2017. Mastectomy was performed in 706 patients (30%), and breast conservative surgery (BCS) was performed in 1634 patients (70%). The LTDF was adopted in 487/1634 (30%) of BCS cases to fill the large defect left by partial resection. we divided all patients into 3 groups: breast total mastectomy (BT group), the breast partial resection (BP) with LTDF (LTDF group), and Bp without LTDF (BP group) and compared the clinical characteristics, and recurrence rate.

RESULTS

The Indications for LTDF increased up to 40% in 2010, while they decreased to 20%-30% in the most recent period, in accordance with the frequency of breast reconstruction increased. Patients who underwent BP + LTDF (LTDF group) included significantly higher proportions of stage II diseases and cases treated by neoadjuvant chemotherapy than those in BP or BT groups.. We found no marked difference of local recurrence and distant metastases between the LTDF and Bp groups. However, the rate of distant metastasis was significantly higher in BT group than in the Bp or LTDF group. Concerning the complications of LTDF, we experienced a few complications of Grade 3-4 requiring surgical management, namely one case of dislocation of the LTDF, three cases of bleeding, and five cases each of skin necrosis and fat necrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

We reported satisfying long-term outcomes of 487 cases treated by LTDF. LTDF is a suitable oncoplastic technique for BCS.

Extreme Oncoplastic Surgery for Multifocal/Multicentric and Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

Introduction

Breast conserving surgery (BCS) followed by radiation therapy (RT) has become the preferred alternative to mastectomy for patients with early stage breast cancer (BC). Randomized trials have confirmed equivalent locoregional control and overall survival for BCS and mastectomy. Extreme Oncoplasty (EO) extends the indications of BCS for patients who would otherwise require mastectomy, ensuring better aesthetic outcomes and oncological safety.

Methods

BC patients with multifocal/multicentric (MF/MC) tumors, extensive DCIS, or large tumor >50mm underwent EO at our breast unit. Therapeutic reduction mammaplasty (TRM) with wise pattern preoperative markings and dual pedicle technique involving parenchymal rearrangement was used for oncoplastic reconstructions in majority of the cases followed by RT. Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) were assessed using the validated Breast-Q questionnaire.

Results

Of the 39 patients in the study, 36 had unilateral and 3 had bilateral BC. Mean age was 47.2 years. Median tumor size was 75mm. 17 (43.6%) patients received NACT; none achieved a complete clinical response. 28 (71.8%) patients were administered to adjuvant chemotherapy. 33(84.6%) patients received RT to the breast with a median dose of 50Gy in 28 fractions and a boost dose of 10Gy in 5 fractions to the tumor bed. No major complications or local recurrences were observed. Excellent Breast-Q scores were observed in patients undergoing EO after 12 months of follow-up.

Conclusion

EO followed by RT results in acceptable local-regional control, low rate of complications, and high patient satisfaction. In selected patients, EO could provide a safe alternative for breast conservation surgery instead of mastectomy.

Closed Incision Negative Pressure Therapy in Oncological Breast Surgery: Comparison with Standard Care Dressings

Background:

Negative pressure wound therapy was developed for treating wounds associated with unfavorable healing factors. The principles of the negative pressure wound therapy applied on clean and closed surgical incision originate the closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT). We evaluated the use of ciNPT in the setting of oncological breast surgery.

Methods:

From January 1, 2015, to June 31, 2015, we prospectively selected 37 patients undergoing oncological breast surgery with a minimum of 4 risk factors. Seventeen patients (25 surgeries) voluntary tested ciNPT (ciNPT sample), whereas the remaining 20 (22 surgeries) chose conventional postsurgery dressing (Standard Care sample). Follow-up controls to evaluate postsurgical complications were performed on days 7, 14, 30, and 90. At 12 months, the quality of life, scar, and overall aesthetic outcomes were evaluated with specific questionnaires filled in by surgeon and patient. The Standard Care sample was investigated on risk factors associated with poor healing.

Results:

The ciNPT sample showed a significant prevalence of high risk factors, especially extensive undermining and bilateral surgeries, and a predominance of women under 65 years; only 1/25 (4%) surgical procedures was followed by complications. In the Standard Care sample, 10 of 22 surgeries (45%) were followed by complications. The difference in complication rate between the 2 samples was significant. The BIS (Body Image Scale) scores suggested that most patients were satisfied with their body image regardless of the type of dressing. All other questionnaire scores clearly vouched for a significant superiority of the ciNPT. Previous surgery ≤ 30 days emerged as the surgery-related high risk factor most frequently associated with postsurgery complications.

Conclusion:

The results of our study support the use of ciNPT in oncological breast surgery: it showed to be a well-tolerated, adaptable, and reliable dressing capable of reducing postsurgical complications and improving scar outcomes in patients presenting with high risk factors.

The Nipple-Areola Preserving Mastectomy: The Value of Adding a Delay Procedure

Background:

Conservative mastectomy procedures, such as the nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM), present appealing options for patients with small invasive or noninvasive malignancies and those needing prophylactic mastectomies. Despite outstanding postoperative cosmetic results, nipple–areola complex (NAC) and mastectomy skin flap (MSF) survival remains a concern. We present our two-stage nipple–areola preserving (NAP) mastectomy, which aims to decrease the rate of NAC loss and MSF necrosis after conservative mastectomies.

Material and Methods:

Seventy patients who underwent NSM because of malignant and benign conditions were divided into 2 groups: those who underwent our two-stage NAP mastectomy were matched to the group of mastectomy patients without preservation techniques. Demographic data and postoperative results were retrospectively assessed.

Results:

The NAP group comprised 45 flaps (24 patients), and the NSM group comprised 75 flaps (46 patients). None were actively smoking. The mean time between the delay of the flap and breast reconstruction was 17.6 days (range, of 10–35 days) in the NAP group. No signs of NAC vascular compromise were observed in the NAP group. Nipple necrosis rates were significantly greater (P = 0.0136) in the NSM group: 9 cases in the NSM group versus none within the NAP group. Two patients within the NAP group required nipple excision at the time of their mastectomies after biopsies performed at the time of the NAC delay were positive for malignancy or atypia.

Conclusions:

Vascular delay techniques favor the blood supply of a tissue after a surgical wound, effectively improving the survival of the NAC and MSF after nipple-sparing mastectomies.

Current Practices and Barriers to the Integration of Oncoplastic Breast Surgery: A Canadian Perspective

BACKGROUND

Despite the safety and popularity of oncoplastic surgery, there is limited data examining utilization and barriers associated with its incorporation into practice. This study examines the use of oncoplastic techniques in breast conserving surgery and determines the barriers associated with their implementation.

METHODS

A 13-item survey was mailed to all registered general surgeons in Ontario, Canada. The survey assessed surgeon demographics, utilization of specific oncoplastic techniques, and perceived barriers.

RESULTS

A total of 234 survey responses were received, representing a response rate of 32.2 % (234 of 725). Of the respondents, 166 surgeons (70.9 %) reported a practice volume of at least 25 % breast surgery. Comparison was made between general surgeons performing oncoplastic breast surgery (N = 79) and those who did not use these techniques (N = 87). Surgeon gender, years in practice, fellowship training, and access to plastic surgery were similar across groups. Both groups rated the importance of breast cosmesis similarly. General surgeons with a practice volume involving >50 % breast surgery were more likely to use oncoplastic techniques (OR 8.82, p < .001) and involve plastic surgeons in breast conserving surgery (OR 2.21, p = .02). For surgeons not performing oncoplastic surgery, a lack of training and access to plastic surgeons were identified as significant barriers. For those using oncoplastic techniques, the absence of specific billing codes was identified as a limiting factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Lack of training, access to plastic surgeons, and absence of appropriate reimbursement for these cases are significant barriers to the adoption of oncoplastic techniques.

The Nipple-Areola Preserving Mastectomy: A Multistage Procedure Aiming to Improve Reconstructive Outcomes following Mastectomy

Ischemia of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) and periareolar tissue is commonly seen following tissue-preserving mastectomies for small invasive and noninvasive cancers. The nipple-areola preserving mastectomy is a multistage procedure in which the NAC and central mastectomy flap tissue is surgically delayed to improve the survivability in patients undergoing mastectomies followed by reconstruction.

Skin sparing/skin reducing mastectomy (SSM/SRM) and the concept of oncoplastic breast surgery

INTRODUCTION

With the better understanding of breast cancer history and biology, improved diagnostic modalities and the shift towards minimally invasive surgeries, indications for prophylactic mastectomy, skin sparing or skin reducing mastectomies (SSM/SRM) with nipple areolar complex (NAC) preservation coupled with immediate breast reconstruction are gaining popularity. The authors share their experience and conception with mastectomy and immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction with the esthetic circumvertical mammoplasty pattern combined with the dermal barrier buttress flap.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The described technique was performed for 28 patients presenting for mastectomy and immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction. With close collaboration between the oncologic and plastic surgeons, mastectomy was performed in all cases with the esthetic circumvertical mammoplasty pattern. To achieve safe excision and optimal reconstruction, the standard incisions could be custom designed to fit oncologic requirements and allow the creation of a dermal barrier flap used as a buttress separating the implant from the suture line.

CONCLUSION

The circumvertical mastectomy pattern combined with the dermal barrier buttress flap is a versatile option allowing safe reconstruction regardless of the tumor and necessary skin excision location.

Ductal carcinoma in situ: breast-conserving surgery without radiotherapy

BACKGROUND

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is commonly managed with breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and adjuvant radiotherapy. Oncoplastic BCS allows wide excision without compromising the breast's natural shape. We use 'level one' techniques to excise a 'sector' of tissue (apex at the nipple) rather than traditional 'lumpectomy'. There are concerns that some DCIS is over-treated and radiotherapy administered unnecessarily incurring the associated cost, time and morbidity without added benefit. This study aims to determine if pure DCIS can be managed safely without relying upon adjuvant therapies with an acceptable breast conservation rate.

METHOD

A retrospective clinical study of 96 patients who underwent BCS alone for pure DCIS between 1995 and 2009. Data were collected on patient's demographics, presentation, excision margins, re-excision and final margins, size, grade and nuclear architecture of DCIS, recurrent ipsilateral breast events, contralateral breast events, date of the last follow-up with mammography and patients' assessment of cosmetic outcome (scale 1-5: very dissatisfied, somewhat dissatisfied, somewhat satisfied, satisfied, very satisfied).

RESULTS

Twelve (12.5%) had an ipsilateral recurrence. Mean follow-up was 7.6 years (median 7.4); yearly recurrence rate was 1.67%. Of the 52 patients who gave an assessment of cosmetic outcome, 46 were satisfied.

CONCLUSION

Ipsilateral recurrence rates were favourable compared with previous trials where DCIS was treated with lumpectomy and radiotherapy. Oncoplastic techniques may be used to successfully treat pure DCIS with BCS alone without adjuvant therapies.

["V" axillary incision for the management of tumors of upper outer quadrant and axillary tail of the breast: retrospective study and technical description]

INTRODUCTION

Tumors of the upper outer quadrant of the breast represent the most common location of breast malignant tumors. Although the choice of surgical approach should be dictated primarily by an imperative of oncological safety, esthetic and practical considerations of the surgeon as well as the esthetic demands of patients have become increasingly important with the development of breast conservative surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, we reviewed 30 patients (mean age: 62.3 years) who were operated for a tumor of the upper outer quadrant (50 %) or the axillary tail (50 %) of the breast and who received a "V" axillary incision between 2008 and 2012. The incision draws a "V" that comprises a horizontal incision in an axilla fold associated with a vertical arcuate incision in a Langer line of the breast. The number and type of postoperative complications were collected. Patients were asked about the quality of their scar, position of the areola and breast shape was notified during consultations control.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up of patients was 32.7 months. No postoperative complications were observed. A percentage of 86.6 % of patients rated their scar result as excellent. We found no areolar malposition and no morphological deformation of the breast. The surgeons who performed this technique were very pleased with the wide exposure and the uniqueness of this incision fully respecting the architecture of the breast.

CONCLUSION

"V" axillary incision is a useful and easily reproducible technical option for the management of tumors of the upper outer quadrant and the axillary tail of the breast.

Comparing reduction mammaplasty specimens between superior and central pedicle techniques: a retrospective study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the histologic diagnoses of the reduction mammaplasty specimens in two retrospective series of patients operated using superior and central pedicle mammaplasties. Between November 2000 and December 2011, 60 consecutive patients (120 breasts) underwent breast reduction using the superior pedicle technique with a vertical scar (Lejour's technique). These patients were compared with another series of 80 patients (150 breasts) who underwent breast reduction using a vertical scar mammaplasty with a central pedicle (Copcu's technique). The characteristics of the patients were statistically similar between the two groups. Therefore, 140 patients who had undergone reduction mammaplasty were analyzed with respect to their histologic diagnoses, age, and specimen's weight. In the superior pedicle technique, we found that 30% of these women had pathologic alterations in at least one of their breasts, whereas the pathologic changes in patients who underwent Copcu's technique were 35%. In terms of tumor diagnosis, the upper quadrant excision technique (e.g. Copcu's method) may be safer. If there is no other special condition, it is better to use the pedicle technique in which the upper lateral and upper medial pole is removed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, therapeutic study.

Oncoplastic breast reduction: maximizing aesthetics and surgical margins

Oncoplastic breast reduction combines oncologically sound concepts of cancer removal with aesthetically maximized approaches for breast reduction. Numerous incision patterns and types of pedicles can be used for purposes of oncoplastic reduction, each tailored for size and location of tumor. A team approach between reconstructive and breast surgeons produces positive long-term oncologic results as well as satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes, rendering oncoplastic breast reduction a favorable treatment option for certain patients with breast cancer.

Update on breast reconstruction techniques and indications

Breast reconstruction is considered as part of the breast cancer treatment when a mastectomy is required. Implants or expanders are the most frequent techniques used for the reconstructions. Expander provides usually a better symmetry. A contralateral mastoplasty often is required to improve the symmetry. The nipple areola complex, which can be preserved in certain conditions, is usually removed and can be reconstructed in a second stage under local anesthesia. In case of radical mastectomy and/or radiotherapy, a musculocutaneous flap, such as rectus abdominis or latissimus dorsi autologous flaps, is required. When microsurgical facilities are available, free or perforator flaps respecting the muscle are preferred to decrease the donor site complications. In situ carcinomas or prophylactic mastectomy can be reconstructed immediately as well as invasive carcinoma according to the recent literature. Locally advanced breast cancer can be reconstructed after complete oncologic treatment. Radiotherapy of the thoracic wall is proposed in case of lymph node metastases, raising the discussion about the technique choice and the timing of the reconstruction. Plastic surgery procedures can improve the cosmetic results of the conservative surgery, also extending its indications and reducing both mastectomy and reexcision rates. Oncoplasty techniques are becoming more and more sophisticated, requiring the skill of trained plastic surgeons. Numerous publications confirm the psychosocial benefit resulting from the breast reconstruction.

Oncoplastic approaches to breast conservation

When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer many aspects of her physical, emotional, and sexual wholeness are threatened. The quickly expanding field of oncoplastic breast surgery aims to enhance the physician commitment to restore the patient's image and self-assurance. By combining a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment with oncoplastic surgery, successful results in the eyes of the patient and physician are significantly more likely to occur. As a way to aid oncoplastic teams in determining which approach is most suitable for their patient's tumor size, tumor location, body habitus, and desired cosmetic outcome we present a review of several oncoplastic surgical approaches. For resections located anywhere in the breast, the radial ellipse segmentectomy incision and circumareolar approach for segmental resection are discussed. For resections in the upper or central breast, crescent mastopexy, the batwing incision, the hemibatwing incision, donut mastopexy, B-flap resection, and the central quadrantectomy are reviewed. For lesions of the lower breast, the triangle incision, inframammary incision, and reduction mastopexy are discussed. Surgeons who are interested in adding oncoplastic breast conserving therapies to their skill sets are encouraged to implement these surgical techniques where applicable and to seek out breast fellowships or enhanced training when appropriate.

[Retroareolar breast cancer: oncoplastic resection technique with central quadrantectomy and reconstruction with Grisotti's inferior dermo-glandular flap]

Centrally located breast cancers account for 5-20% of all breast cancer cases. Historically, patients with central breast cancers were not offered breast conservation surgery but conventional mastectomy only. The relatively frequent nipple-areola-complex involvement and consequent nipple-areolar resections with an adequate safety margin around the tumor usually result in an unacceptable cosmetic result. However, breast conservation surgery can be offered to these patients applyingoncoplastic surgical techniques. In this study, central quadrantectomy and breast reconstruction with Grisotti's dermo-glandular flap is evaluated.

Oncoplastic Breast Surgery - Our Experiences in the Breast Clinic, IPGME&R, Kolkata

Oncoplastic breast surgery is the fusion of oncological and surgical principles to gain successful breast tumour excision with good cosmesis. It is an widely accepted and popular method in the western world. However, the picture is different in India. The major issues here, like late detection and advanced tumours, poor socio-economic status overriding quality of life issue and shortage of dedicated oncoplastic surgeons result in a poor acceptance and practice of oncoplastic breast surgery. This article explores the use of various oncoplastic techniques in clinical practice and discusses future directions in this emerging field in an Indian perspective. In our institute (breast care unit, I.P.G.M.E&R,Kolkata), we performed a retrospective study over a period of five years (2005-2009). It included a sample size of 30 patients with diagnosed breast cancer or Phylloides Tumor (PT). The study focused on the indications, type of oncoplastic procedure used, cosmetic outcome (shape / volume replacement, ptosis correction & chest wall coverage), complications faced and response to subsequent therapy. The indications, for which oncoplastic techniques were applied, were DCIS (2), LCIS (1), IDC (19) and phylloides tumor (8). Of the 30 patients, RAT was used in 8, LDMF (of various types and volume) was used in 16, pedicled TRAM flap was used in 3 and reduction mastopexy in 3.The procedural indications of reconstruction were total glandular replacement by TRAM flap, mini-LDMF to fill volume loss after BCS or wide local excision, rotation advancement technique for reshaping / symmetry maintenance after BCS or wide local excision, LDMF for chest wall coverage after MRM and reduction mastopexy after wide local excision. From patient's point of view the outcome of surgery was highly satisfactory (score 3 or more) in 19 out of 30 patients (63.33%). LDMF was the most commonly used (16 out of 30) oncoplastic procedure with least complication rates (0 out of 16). 4 out of 30 patients had complications related to the procedure. Chest wall coverage after MRM still forms the main indication of oncoplastic surgery in this country.

[Breast conserving oncoplastic surgery in the treatment of centrally located malignant breast tumors]

Central breast neoplasms account for 5 to 20% of breast cancer cases. For decades, they have been traditionally treated with mastectomy. The high incidence of involvement associated with these tumors necessitates nipple and areola resection. Oncoplastic surgical techniques, in well selected cases, enable the achievement of adequate cosmetic results following a radical central quadrantectomy along with the Nipple-Areola Complex. The present paper summarizes the indications, techniques and results of breast conserving surgeries of central breast tumors.

Oncological and aesthetic considerations of conservational surgery for multifocal/multicentric breast cancer

Conventional indications for mastectomy (MX) reflect circumstances where breast conserving therapy (BCT) could compromise oncological or cosmetic outcome. MX continues to be recommended for the majority of women with multiple lesions within the same breast. In this article, we review the oncological safety and aesthetic considerations of BCT in the context of multifocal (MF) or multicentric (MC) breast cancer. Literature review facilitated by Medline and PubMed databases. Published studies have reported divergent results regarding the oncological adequacy of BCT in the management of MF or MC disease. Earlier studies demonstrated high rates of local recurrence (LR) for BCT. More recent series have found BCT to be comparable to MX in terms of LR, distant failure, disease free and overall survival. Few studies have adequately evaluated cosmetic outcomes following BCT for MF or MC breast cancer. Contemporary oncoplastic techniques have extended the clinical utility of BCT and are of particular relevance to breast conservation in the context of MF or MC lesions. Appropriate case selection, preoperative oncological and aesthetic planning, satisfactory clearance of the surgical margins and adjuvant radiotherapy are of paramount importance. In the absence of level-1 guidance concerning the management of women with MF or MC disease, each case requires discussion with regard to tumor and patient related factors in the context of the multidisciplinary team. In selected patients with MF or MC disease, BCT is oncologically safe and cosmetically acceptable. Uniformity of practice and the establishment of a standard of care will require an evidence-base from prospective studies.

Oncoplastic breast surgery for cancer: analysis of 540 consecutive cases [outcomes article]

BACKGROUND

Synchronous plastic and oncological surgery is undertaken to improve the security of excision margins and yield high-quality aesthetic outcomes when conventional breast-conserving therapy either anticipates poor results or is not possible.

METHODS

A total of 540 consecutive patients underwent primary oncoplastic breast surgery for cancer with high tumor-to-breast volume ratios and locations precluding a good aesthetic result with simple tumor excision. A variety of techniques were employed at the Institut Curie between 1986 and 2007, and aesthetic outcomes were assessed on a five-point scale from 1 (excellent) to 5 (poor).

RESULTS

The median age was 52 years (range, 28 to 90 years), and median follow-up was 49 months (6 to 262 months). Median tumor size was 29.1 mm (range, 4 to 100 mm), with most patients (72.3 percent) having a brassiere cup size of B or C. Close or involved margins occurred in 18.9 percent, with mastectomy being necessary in 9.4 percent. A satisfactory aesthetic outcome (ratings of 1 to 3) at 5 years was obtained in 90.3 percent. Five-year overall and distant disease-free survival rates were 92.9 and 87.9 percent, respectively, with local recurrence in 6.8 percent.

CONCLUSIONS

With local recurrence and survival rates similar to those for breast-conserving therapy, this series confirms the safety of oncoplastic breast surgery for tumors both high in volume and difficult in location. Highly satisfactory cosmetic outcomes extend the indications for conservative surgery, further reduce the mastectomy rate, and limit adverse aesthetic sequelae.

Improving breast cancer surgery: a classification and quadrant per quadrant atlas for oncoplastic surgery

BACKGROUND

Oncoplastic surgery (OPS) has emerged as a new approach for extending breast conserving surgery (BCS) possibilities, reducing both mastectomy and re-excision rates, while avoiding breast deformities. OPS is based upon the integration of plastic surgery techniques for immediate reshaping after wide excision for breast cancer. A simple guide for choosing the appropriate OPS procedure is not available.

OBJECTIVE

To develop an Atlas and guideline for oncoplastic surgery (OPS) to help in patient selection and choice of optimal surgical procedure for breast cancer patients undergoing BCS.

METHODS

We stratify OPS into two levels based on excision volume and the complexity of the reshaping technique. For resections less than 20% of the breast volume (level I OPS), a step-by-step approach allows easy reshaping of the breast. For larger resections (level II OPS), a mammoplasty technique is required.

RESULTS

We identified three elements that can be used for patient selection and for determination of the appropriate OPS technique: excision volume, tumor location, and glandular density. For level II techniques, we defined a quadrant per quadrant Atlas that offers a different mammoplasty for each quadrant of the breast.

CONCLUSIONS

OPS is the "third pathway" between standard BCS and mastectomy. The OPS classification and Atlas improves patient selection and allows a uniform approach for surgeons. It proposes a specific solution for different scenarios and helps improve breast conservation outcomes.

Lateral mammaplasty reconstruction after surgery for breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Up to 60 per cent of cancers develop laterally in the breast and breast-conserving surgery frequently produces superolateral nipple-areolar complex (NAC) distortion aggravated by postoperative irradiation. Correction is technically demanding and the outcomes are variable. Lateral mammaplasty may allow wider excision margins and prevent such deformities.

METHODS

This was a review of 86 consecutive patients who had lateral mammaplasty: combined wide tumour excision with NAC repositioning on a reliable dermoglandular pedicle. Simultaneous axillary surgery was performed via a separate or combined incision. Aesthetic outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

The median age of the women was 54 (range 29-75) years; 55 (64 per cent) had palpable tumours and 73 (85 per cent) underwent simultaneous axillary surgery. Median radiological and histological tumour sizes were 29.8 and 33.6 mm, respectively, and median weight of excised tumour was 150 g. Two patients required haematoma evacuation. Eleven women required revisional surgery for involved or close margins. Aesthetic outcomes were excellent or good in 93 per cent.

CONCLUSION

Lateral mammaplasty produced clear margins in 87 per cent of women. It is an option when a deformity is anticipated after breast-conserving surgery, and is particularly valuable when neoadjuvant chemotherapy has downgraded a large tumour.

Oncoplastic breast surgery: a review and systematic approach

Oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS) is relatively new, but has made rapid progress from its tentative steps of infancy in the 1990s. The recent Milanese Consensus Conference on Breast Conservation concluded that, firstly, oncoplastic techniques are warranted to allow wide excision and clear margins without compromising cosmesis. Secondly, such surgery is ideally performed at the same time as oncological excision. Whilst technically more challenging than standard breast conserving therapy (BCT), OBS is well proven, if not yet widely practised, both oncologically and aesthetically and a review of the available techniques is perhaps timely. The roots of breast conserving therapy can be traced to the 1930s, actually due to advances made in radiotherapy, and the last 20 years have seen it become firmly established. This review aims to summarise the key historical developments and latest innovations in OBS. Not only are our patients, who expect not only safe cancer treatment but a satisfactory aesthetic outcome, increasingly informed and demanding, but longer follow up has stimulated surgeons to improve outcomes. In many cases, particularly with ptosis and macromastia, the cancer can be treated, usually with wider excision margins, simultaneously improving the aesthetic appearance. Present at the birth of OBS, the Institut Curie has continued to introduce innovative techniques over the last two decades and a systematic approach, comprising nine basic techniques, has evolved to allow high quality treatment of any and all breast cancers suitable for OBS.

Breast conserving surgery for breast cancer involving the nipple

We present two cases of invasive breast carcinoma with involvement of the dermis and epidermis of the nipple areolar complex (NAC), which were treated with an immediate breast reconstruction. Oncoplastic techniques were utilised in both cases: Latissimus Dorsi Mini Flap in the first and therapeutic reduction mammaplasty in the second. Both methods were used to fill the defect and also to recreate the NAC. We believe these techniques have an expanding role in the repertoire of surgical options for treating breast carcinoma.

An oncoplastic procedure for central and medio-cranial breast cancer

Breast conserving therapy shows remarkable oncologic results and is eligible for up to 73% of patients with breast cancer. Cosmetic results are good, however, in patients with central or medio-cranial ("no-man's land") located breast cancer, the cosmetic result may be unsatisfying. The use of different breast reduction techniques have been shown to increase resection free margins and improve cosmetic results. We report here about the use of the Hall Findlay breast reduction technique for oncoplastic surgery to improve the cosmetic result in 11 patients. The Hall Findlay technique shows good postoperative breast symmetry, all patients had resection free margins above 5mm and are free of disease at a mean follow-up of 12 months. The technique may be used for breast cancer at various locations and reduces scar visibility and morbidity.

Reliability of inferior dermoglandular pedicle reduction mammaplasty in reconstruction of partial mastectomy defects: surgical planning and outcome

The objective of this study is to describe the surgical planning of the inferior dermoglandular pedicle (IDP) technique and its outcome following partial mastectomy reconstruction. A total of 26 patients with breast cancer underwent immediate IDP reconstruction. IDP was indicated to reconstruct superior/central breast defects. Postoperative complications were evaluated and information on esthetic result and satisfaction were collected. About 57.6 percent had tumors measuring 2cm or less (T1). Immediate complications occurred in 34.2 percent with skin necrosis in 11.4 and dehiscence in 7.6 percent. Late complications were observed in 11.4 percent. The cosmetic result was considered to be good or very good in 88.4 percent and the majority of patients were satisfied. All complications were treated by conservative approach. IDP is a reliable technique and should be given consideration in cases of superior/central quadrant reconstruction. The success of the procedure depends on patient selection and careful intra-operative management.

Superior-medial dermoglandular pedicle reduction mammaplasty for immediate conservative breast surgery reconstruction: technical aspects and outcome

BACKGROUND

Reduction mammaplasty procedures and especially the superior-medial dermoglandular pedicle (SMDP) technique are frequently used for esthetic objectives; however, few reports have been available regarding its application following conservative breast surgery reconstruction. The purpose of this study is to analyze the feasibility of the technique and describe the surgical planning and its outcome following oncologic surgery.

METHODS

Thirty-nine patients underwent immediate bilateral SMDP breast reconstructions. Mean time of follow-up was 20 months. SMDP was indicated to reconstruct inferior breast defects in patients with enough remaining breast tissue. Reconstructed (RB) and opposite (OB) breast complications were evaluated and information on esthetic result and patient satisfaction was collected.

RESULTS

Tumors (51.2%) measured 2 cm or less (T1) and 66.6% were located in the lower outer quadrants. Mean change in nipple position was 12.5 cm. Immediate RB complications occurred in 8 patients (20.5%), with skin necrosis in 3 (7.6%), infection in 2 (5.1%), dehiscence in 2 (5.1%), and partial areola necrosis in 1 (2.5%) patient. Late complications were observed in 7.6%. All late complications were observed after adjuvant radiotherapy. The cosmetic result was considered to be good or very good in 84.6%, and the majority of patients were either very satisfied or satisfied. All complications were treated by conservative approach.

CONCLUSION

SMDP is a reliable technique and should be given primary consideration in cases of lower quadrant reconstruction. The success of the procedure depends on patient selection, coordinated planning, and careful intraoperative management.

The role of the lateral thoracodorsal fasciocutaneous flap in immediate conservative breast surgery reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Although the lateral thoracodorsal fasciocutaneous flap is a well-studied procedure for late breast reconstruction following radical surgery, there are few previous reports regarding its indication, flap design, and clinical outcome following conservative breast surgery.

METHODS

Thirty-four patients underwent immediate unilateral lateral thoracodorsal fasciocutaneous flap breast reconstructions. Mean time of follow-up was 23 months. The lateral thoracodorsal fasciocutaneous flap was indicated to reconstruct moderate lateral breast defects where there was not enough breast tissue to perform the reconstruction. Flap and donor-site complications were evaluated. Information on aesthetic results and patient satisfaction was collected.

RESULTS

All tumors were located in lateral breast regions, and 64.7 percent measured 2 cm or less (T1). Flap complications occurred in four patients (11.8 percent), with partial flap necrosis in three (8.8 percent). Donor-site complications occurred in eight (23.5 percent), with seroma in five (14.7 percent) and wound dehiscence in three (8.8 percent). The cosmetic result was considered to be good or very good in 88.2 percent, and the majority of patients were either very satisfied or satisfied. Surgical intervention was necessary in two cases of wound dehiscence. Serial dorsal puncture in cases of seroma were performed with satisfactory results.

CONCLUSIONS

The lateral thoracodorsal fasciocutaneous flap is a simple and reliable technique for conservative breast surgery reconstruction. Success depends on patient selection, coordinated planning with the oncologic surgeon, and careful intraoperative management.

Critical analysis of reduction mammaplasty techniques in combination with conservative breast surgery for early breast cancer treatment

BACKGROUND

Although reduction mammaplasty is a well-described technique for aesthetic purposes, there are few previous reports regarding its application and clinical outcome following conservative breast surgery reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to analyze the feasibility of the technique and its outcome following conservative breast surgery.

METHODS

Oncologic data and information on age, body mass index, smoking history, and comorbid conditions were collected. Reconstructed and opposite breast complications were evaluated. Reduction mammaplasty was indicated to reconstruct moderate breast defects in patients with enough remaining breast tissue. Mean follow-up was 22 months.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients underwent immediate reduction mammaplasty following breast-conserving surgery. In 55.4 percent of patients, tumors measured 2 cm or less (T1) and in 47.2 percent they were located in the upper outer quadrants. Breast complications occurred in 13 patients (17.6 percent), with skin necrosis in six (8.1 percent), infection in two (2.7 percent), partial areola necrosis in two (2.7 percent), dehiscence in two, and total areola necrosis in one (1.35 percent). Late complications represented by skin lesions and fat necrosis were observed in five patients (6.8 percent). Obese patients and smokers had a significantly higher rate of reconstructed breast complications compared with the normal/overweight patients (p = 0.002) and nonsmokers (p = 0.043). No significant association between complications and age, hypertension, diabetes, axillary lymph node dissection, or chemotherapy was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduction mammaplasty is a consistent technique for reconstruction following breast-conserving surgery. Complications are more often observed in the reconstructed breast, and obese patients and smokers are higher risk patients.

Breast reduction as an alternative treatment option for early breast cancer in women with macromastia

Macromastia has been considered a relative contraindication to breast conservation therapy because of difficulties with postoperative radiation therapy and cosmesis. This study evaluates the feasibility of the inferior pedicle reduction mammaplasty as a component of breast conservation therapy for patients with early breast cancer. A retrospective review identified 6 patients with macromastia receiving oncologic treatment of breast cancer and simultaneous breast reduction. Mean age was 43.5 +/- 8.7 (mean +/- SD) years, and all breast cancers were stage I or II, averaging 2.3 +/- 1.5 cm in size. All patients underwent a Wise-pattern inferior pedicle breast reduction after cancer extirpation and received postoperative radiation as part of their treatment. They were evaluated for postoperative complications, esthetic outcome of the breasts, and local recurrence. Patients in this series were followed for an average of 30.3 months, with no significant postoperative complications and recurrences. Breast reduction incisions healed primarily and adjuvant radiation was completed without a delay. All patients were pleased with the esthetic result and had improvement of their symptoms related to macromastia. Thus, we believe that breast reduction is a reasonable and safe option for early breast cancer patients with macromastia who desire breast conservation therapy. Our combined oncologic and reconstructive approach may improve the outcome of this group of patients with early breast cancers.