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Wazir U, Michell MJ, Alamoodi M, Mokbel K. Evaluating Radar Reflector Localisation in Targeted Axillary Dissection in Patients Undergoing Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy for Node-Positive Early Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1345. [PMID: 38611023 PMCID: PMC11011109 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
SAVI SCOUT® or radar reflector localisation (RRL) has proven accurate in localising non-palpable breast and axillary lesions, with minimal interference with MRI. Targeted axillary dissection (TAD), combining marked lymph node biopsy (MLNB) and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), is becoming a standard post-neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST) for node-positive early breast cancer. Compared to SLNB alone, TAD reduces the false negative rate (FNR) to below 6%, enabling safer axillary surgery de-escalation. This systematic review evaluates RRL's performance during TAD, assessing localisation and retrieval rates, the concordance between MLNB and SLNB, and the pathological complete response (pCR) in clinically node-positive patients post-NST. Four studies (252 TAD procedures) met the inclusion criteria, with a 99.6% (95% confidence [CI]: 98.9-100) successful localisation rate, 100% retrieval rate, and 81% (95% CI: 76-86) concordance rate between SLNB and MLNB. The average duration from RRL deployment to surgery was 52 days (range:1-202). pCR was observed in 42% (95% CI: 36-48) of cases, with no significant migration or complications reported. Omitting MLNB or SLNB would have under-staged the axilla in 9.7% or 3.4% (p = 0.03) of cases, respectively, underscoring the importance of incorporating MLNB in axillary staging post-NST in initially node-positive patients in line with the updated National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. These findings underscore the excellent efficacy of RRL in TAD for NST-treated patients with positive nodes, aiding in accurate axillary pCR identification and the safe omission of axillary dissection in strong responders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kefah Mokbel
- The London Breast Institute, Princess Grace Hospital, London W1U 5NY, UK; (U.W.); (M.J.M.); (M.A.)
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Coogan AC, Lunt LG, O'Donoghue C, Keshwani SS, Madrigrano A. Efficacy of Targeted Axillary Dissection With Radar Reflector Localization Before Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy. J Surg Res 2024; 295:597-602. [PMID: 38096773 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.11.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION For clinically node positive breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), targeted axillary dissection (TAD) can be used to stage the axilla. TAD removes the sentinel lymph node (SLN) and tagged positive nodes, which can be identified via radar reflector localization (RRL). As it can be challenging to localize a previously positive node after NAC, we evaluated RRL prior to NAC. METHODS We performed a retrospective chart review of breast cancer patients with node positive disease treated with NAC who underwent TAD with RRL. We compared retrieval of radar reflector and clip, timing of localization, and, if a node was positive, whether the radar reflector node or SLN was positive. RESULTS Seventy-nine patients fulfilled inclusion criteria; 32 were placed pre-NAC (mean 187 d before surgery) and 47 were placed post-NAC (mean 7 d before surgery). For pre-NAC placement, 31 of 32 radar reflectors and 31 of 32 clips were retrieved. For post-NAC placement, 47 of 47 radar reflectors and 46 of 47 clips were retrieved. There was no significant difference in radar reflector or clip retrieval rates between pre-NAC and post-NAC groups (P = 0.41, P = 1, respectively). Thirty of 32 patients with pathologic complete response avoided an axillary lymph node dissection. Of 47 patients with a positive lymph node, 32 were both the SLN and radar reflector node, 11 were radar reflector alone, and four were the SLN. CONCLUSIONS RRL systems are an effective way to guide TAD, and RRL makers can be safely placed prior to NAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison C Coogan
- Department of Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois.
| | - Lilia G Lunt
- Department of Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Sarah S Keshwani
- Department of Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Andrea Madrigrano
- Department of Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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Siso C, Esgueva A, Rivero J, Morales C, Miranda I, Peg V, Gil-Moreno A, Espinosa-Bravo M, Rubio IT. Feasibility and safety of targeted axillary dissection guided by intraoperative ultrasound after neoadjuvant treatment. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2023; 49:106938. [PMID: 37244843 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2023.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Axillary management in cN + axillary nodes after neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST) in breast cancer (BC) remains under research with the aim of de-escalation of axillary node dissection (ALND). Several axillary guided localization techniques have been reported. This study evaluates the safety of intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) guided targeted axillary dissection (TAD) in a large sample after the results of ILINA trial. MATERIALS Prospective data have been collected from October 2015 to June 2022 in patients with cT0-T4 and positive axillary lymph nodes (cN1) treated with NST. Before NST, an ultrasound visible marker was placed into the positive node. After NST, IOUS guided TAD was performed including sentinel node biopsy (SLN). Until December 2019, all patients underwent an ALND after TAD procedure. From January 2020, ALND was spared in those patients with an axillary pathological complete response (pCR). RESULTS 235 patients were included. pCR (ypT0/is ypN0) was achieved in 29% patients. Identification rate (IR) of the clipped node by IOUS was 96% (95% IC, 92.5-98.1%) and IR of SLN was 95% (95% IC, 90.8-97.2%). False negative rate (FNR) for TAD procedure (SLN + clipped node) was 7.0% (95% IC, 2.3-15.7%), which decreased to 4.9% when a total of 3 or more nodes were removed. Axillary ultrasound before surgery assessed residual disease with an AUC of 0.5241. Residual axillary disease tend to be the most significant factor for axillary recurrences. CONCLUSIONS This study confirms the feasibility, safety and accuracy of IOUS guided surgery for axillary staging after NST in node positive BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Siso
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio Esgueva
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Universidad de Navarra, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquin Rivero
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Morales
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Miranda
- Departament of Radiology, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vicente Peg
- Departament of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio Gil-Moreno
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Martin Espinosa-Bravo
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel T Rubio
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Universidad de Navarra, Madrid, Spain.
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Ferrarazzo G, Nieri A, Firpo E, Rattaro A, Mignone A, Guasone F, Manzara A, Perniciaro G, Spinaci S. The Role of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Breast Cancer Patients Who Become Clinically Node-Negative Following Neo-Adjuvant Chemotherapy: A Literature Review. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:8703-8719. [PMID: 37887530 PMCID: PMC10605278 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30100630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In clinically node-positive (cN+) breast cancer (BC) patients who become clinically node-negative (cN0) following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT), sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) after lymphatic mapping with lymphoscintigraphy is not widely accepted; therefore, it has become a topic of international debate. OBJECTIVE Our literature review aims to evaluate the current use of this surgical practice in a clinical setting and focuses on several studies published in the last six years which have contributed to the assessment of the feasibility and accuracy of this practice, highlighting its importance and oncological safety. We have considered the advantages and disadvantages of this technique compared to other suggested methods and strategies. We also evaluated the role of local irradiation therapy after SLNB and state-of-the-art SLN mapping in patients subjected to NACT. METHODS A comprehensive search of PubMed and Cochrane was conducted. All studies published in English from 2018 to August 2023 were evaluated. RESULTS Breast units are moving towards a de-escalation of axillary surgery, even in the NACT setting. The effects of these procedures on local irradiation are not very clear. Several studies have evaluated the oncological outcome of SLNB procedures. However, none of the alternative techniques proposed to lower the false negative rate (FNR) of SLNB are significant in terms of prognosis. CONCLUSIONS Based on these results, we can state that lymphatic mapping with SLNB in cN+ BC patients who become clinically node-negative (ycN0) following NACT is a safe procedure, with a good prognosis and low axillary failure rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ferrarazzo
- Nuclear Medicine, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy; (A.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Alberto Nieri
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Oncological Medical and Specialist Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44124 Cona, Italy;
| | - Emma Firpo
- Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy; (E.F.); (A.R.); (F.G.)
| | - Andrea Rattaro
- Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy; (E.F.); (A.R.); (F.G.)
| | - Alessandro Mignone
- Nuclear Medicine, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy; (A.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Flavio Guasone
- Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy; (E.F.); (A.R.); (F.G.)
| | - Augusto Manzara
- Nuclear Medicine, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy; (A.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Perniciaro
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Unit, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy;
| | - Stefano Spinaci
- Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy;
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Lowes S, El Tahir S, Koo S, Amonkar S, Leaver A, Milligan R. Pre-operative localisation of axillary lymph nodes using radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags: a feasibility assessment in 75 cases. Clin Radiol 2023:S0009-9260(23)00229-5. [PMID: 37355355 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2023.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the safety and feasibility of using radiofrequency identification (RFID) tags for the localisation of axillary nodes prior to targeted excision in a National Health Service (NHS) breast unit. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective data collection was carried out to analyse the first 75 cases of RFID-targeted axillary nodes inserted between 12 June 2019 and 27 October 2022, during which an overall total of 1,296 breast and axillary tags were deployed in 1,120 patients. RESULTS Of the 75 axillary tags, 70 (93%) had a primary breast cancer and five (7%) had no known breast cancer but had an abnormal node targeted for diagnostic excision. Of the 70 with breast cancer, 20 (29%) underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) including one neoadjuvant endocrine therapy. Localisations were performed an average of 11 days before surgery (median 6, range 1-95; n=75). Patients undergoing NAC had their tags inserted after completing treatment due to the artefact caused by the tags on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Tag deployment had a 100% success rate, with 62 tags (83%) lying within the node and 13 tags (17%) lying directly adjacent to the node, either in direct contact (nine of 13), or a maximum of 8 mm from the target (four of 13). All tags and their respective nodes were excised successfully at surgery with no significant complications. There were four cases of tag dislodgement during excision, but overall, this did not compromise retrieval of the tag or the node. CONCLUSIONS The use of RFID tags for the preoperative localisation of axillary nodes is safe and feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lowes
- Breast Screening and Assessment Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, NE9 6SX, UK; Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, NE2 4HH, UK.
| | - S El Tahir
- Breast Screening and Assessment Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, NE9 6SX, UK
| | - S Koo
- Breast Screening and Assessment Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, NE9 6SX, UK
| | - S Amonkar
- Department of Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, NE9 6SX, UK
| | - A Leaver
- Breast Screening and Assessment Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, NE9 6SX, UK
| | - R Milligan
- Department of Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, NE9 6SX, UK
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Banys-Paluchowski M, de Boniface J. Axillary staging in node-positive breast cancer converting to node negativity through neoadjuvant chemotherapy: Current evidence and perspectives. Scand J Surg 2023; 112:117-125. [PMID: 36642957 DOI: 10.1177/14574969221145892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Over the recent years, axillary staging of initially node-positive breast cancer patients converting to clinical node negativity after neoadjuvant chemotherapy has seen rapid changes. This narrative review aims to give a contemporary overview over published evidence and clinical practice, and thus provide some guidance to the surgical community in the process of re-evaluating and re-shaping surgical practice. METHODS The search strategy aimed at finding relevant studies. Only articles in English were considered. RESULTS The introduction of modern techniques offer more precise staging surgery and thus hopefully reduced arm morbidity. Clinical practice has however diverged both within countries and internationally. While some countries have adapted de-escalated axillary staging techniques such as targeted axillary dissection, targeted lymph node biopsy or sentinel lymph node biopsy, others continue to recommend a full axillary lymph node dissection. With the implementation of new techniques, many questions arise, regarding aspects of oncological safety, technical performance, budget and practicality, patient selection and indications for different levels of axillary staging procedures. CONCLUSIONS There is a growing body of evidence on de-escalation of axillary surgery in the setting of cN+ → ycN0 breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. However, standards differ between countries and future studies are necessary to fully assess the optimal strategy for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Banys-Paluchowski
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Schleswig Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jana de Boniface
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
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Weiser R, Manno GC, Cass SH, Chen L, Kuo YF, He J, Robinson AS, Posleman Monetto F, Silva HC, Klimberg VS. Fluoroscopic Intraoperative Breast Neoplasm and Node Detection. J Am Coll Surg 2023; 236:575-585. [PMID: 36728380 DOI: 10.1097/xcs.0000000000000548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preoperative localization is necessary for nonpalpable breast lesions. A novel procedure, fluoroscopic intraoperative neoplasm and node detection (FIND), obviates the preoperative painful and potentially expensive localization by using intraoperative visualization of the standard clip placed during diagnostic biopsy. We hypothesized FIND would improve negative margin rates. STUDY DESIGN This is an IRB-approved retrospective study (September 2016 to March 2021). Electronic chart review identified breast and axillary node procedures using wire localization (WL) or FIND. Primary outcome was margin status. Secondary outcomes included re-excision rate, specimen weight, surgery time, and axillary node localization rate. RESULTS We identified 459 patients, of whom 116 (25.3%) underwent FIND and 343 (74.7%) WL. Of these, 68.1% of FIND and 72.0% of WL procedures were for malignant lesions. Final margin positivity was 5.1% (4 of 79) for FIND and 16.6% (41 of 247) for WL (p = 0.008). This difference lost statistical significance on multivariable logistic regression (p = 0.652). Re-excision rates were 7.6% and 14.6% for FIND and WL (p = 0.125), with an equivalent mean specimen weight (p = 0.502), and mean surgery time of 177.5 ± 81.7 and 157.1 ± 66.8 minutes, respectively (mean ± SD; p = 0.022). FIND identified all (29 of 29) targeted axillary nodes, and WL identified only 80.1% (21 of 26) (p = 0.019). CONCLUSIONS FIND has lower positive margin rates and a trend towards lower re-excision rates compared with WL, proving its value in localizing nonpalpable breast lesions. It also offers accurate localization of axillary nodes, valuable in the era of targeted axillary dissection. It is a method of visual localization, using a skill and equipment surgeons already have, and saves patients and medical systems an additional schedule-disruptive, painful procedure, especially valuable when using novel localization devices is cost-prohibitive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roi Weiser
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Gabrielle C Manno
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Samuel H Cass
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Lu Chen
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Yong-Fang Kuo
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Jing He
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Angelica S Robinson
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Flavia Posleman Monetto
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - H Colleen Silva
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - V Suzanne Klimberg
- From the Department of Surgery (Weiser, Cass, Silva, Klimberg), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
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Image-Guided Radar Reflector Localization for Small Soft-Tissue Lesions in the Musculoskeletal System. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2023; 220:399-406. [PMID: 36259594 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.22.28399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Preoperative localization of nonpalpable breast lesions using a radar reflector surgical guidance system has become commonplace, but the clinical utility of this emerging technology in the musculoskeletal system has not yet been well established. The system components include a console, a handpiece, an implanted radiofrequency reflector that works as a lesion marker, and an infrared light-emitting probe to guide the surgeon. The reflector can be deployed to localize small nonpalpable nodules within the subcutaneous fat as well as lesions within the deeper soft tissues. It can also be used for lymph nodes and foreign bodies. Localization can be performed both before and after treatment. The objective of this article is to describe the potential applications and our technique and initial experience for radar reflector localization within the musculoskeletal system.
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Laws A, Kantor O, King TA. Surgical Management of the Axilla for Breast Cancer. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2023; 37:51-77. [PMID: 36435614 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses the contemporary surgical management of the axilla in patients with breast cancer. Surgical paradigms are highlighted by clinical nodal status at presentation and treatment approach, including upfront surgery and neoadjuvant systemic therapy settings. This review focuses on the increasing opportunities for de-escalating the extent of axillary surgery in the era of sentinel lymph node biopsy, while also reviewing the remaining indications for axillary clearance with axillary lymph node dissection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Laws
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Olga Kantor
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tari A King
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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10
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Prospective Evaluation of Radar-Localized Reflector-Directed Targeted Axillary Dissection in Node-Positive Breast Cancer Patients after Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy. J Am Coll Surg 2022; 234:538-545. [PMID: 35290273 DOI: 10.1097/xcs.0000000000000098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This is a prospective, single-institution study to evaluate feasibility and accuracy of radar-localized reflector (RLR)-targeted axillary dissection (TAD) in node-positive breast cancer patients after neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST). METHODS Patients with biopsy-proven T1-2, N1-3 disease were eligible. Before NST, a marker clip and/or RLR was placed into the positive node. After NST, RLR was inserted if not placed previously. All patients underwent RLR TAD followed by axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Primary end points of the trial were feasibility of RLR TAD and false negative rate (FNR). RESULTS Between 2017 and 2021, 101 patients with N1-3 disease underwent NST. Five patients withdrew from the study, 1 was ineligible, and there were 9 technical failures, thus our final study cohort comprised 86 patients. RLR TAD was performed with probe guidance and confirmed with intraoperative specimen radiograph. After RLR TAD, ALND was performed. Median number of RLR TAD nodes removed was 2 (range 1-10), and the RLR TAD nodes remained positive in 56 patients. Median number of ALND nodes removed was 18 (range 4-46). Accounting for 9 technical failures, feasibility was 90%. All technical failures occurred with attempted placement of RLR after NST. Feasibility rate was 100% when RLR placement occurred at diagnosis. Of the evaluable 86 patients, RLR TAD accurately predicted axillary status in 83 patients, with FNR of 5.1%. CONCLUSION We demonstrate high accuracy of RLR TAD, especially when RLR is placed before NST. For patients who present with N1-3 disease, this is another step towards axillary surgery de-escalation strategies.
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11
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Baker JL, Haji F, Kusske AM, Fischer CP, Hoyt AC, Thompson CK, Lee MK, Attai D, DiNome ML. SAVI SCOUT® localization of metastatic axillary lymph node prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for targeted axillary dissection: a pilot study. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 191:107-114. [PMID: 34652548 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06416-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In clinically node-positive breast cancer, axillary staging after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is optimized with targeted axillary dissection (TAD), which includes removal of the biopsy-proven metastatic lymph node (LN) in addition to sentinel lymph nodes (SLN). Localization of the clipped node is currently performed post-NAC; however, technical limitations can make detection and localization of the treated LN challenging. We prospectively evaluated the feasibility of localizing the metastatic LN with a SAVI SCOUT® reflector (SAVI) prior to NAC for targeted removal at surgery. METHODS Twenty-five patients with stage 2/3 breast cancer underwent ultrasound-guided localization of the biopsy-proven LN with SAVI prior to NAC. After NAC, patients with clinical response underwent TAD. Primary outcome measures were rate of successful localization, days between insertion of SAVI and axillary surgery, frequency of retrieval of clipped node, and frequency of SAVI-LN as SLN. RESULTS After NAC, 23/25 (92%) had clinical axillary down-staging and underwent TAD. Two patients with persistent palpable axillary disease underwent ALND for initial staging. Axillary surgery was performed at an average of 141 days post-SAVI insertion and the SAVI was successfully retrieved in all cases. Among 23 patients undergoing TAD, the SAVI was retrieved within a LN in all patients, whereas clip migration was observed in two patients. The median SLN removed was 4, and SAVI-LN was SLN in 22/23 patients. Axillary pCR rate was 44%. CONCLUSION Localizing a metastatic LN with SAVI reflector prior to NAC for targeted removal at surgery is feasible and may provide technical and logistical advantages over axillary localization post-NAC. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY Clinical trials.gov identifier: NCT03411070.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Baker
- Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Farnaz Haji
- Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Amy M Kusske
- Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cheryce P Fischer
- Department of Radiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anne C Hoyt
- Department of Radiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carlie K Thompson
- Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Minna K Lee
- Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Deanna Attai
- Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maggie L DiNome
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Options to Determine Pathological Response of Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Advanced Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164167. [PMID: 34439321 PMCID: PMC8394061 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neoadjuvant therapy instituted prior to definitive surgery helps to reduce the tumor burden in the breast and axilla. De-escalation of surgery in the axilla may allow removal of just the involved nodes and sentinel nodes for determination of pathological response of previously biopsy proven positive axillary nodes. In order to attain the optimal surgical results with minimum risk of complications, it is important to choose the accurate method of identification of these positive nodes. In this review, we examine the different options to assure identification of the nodes deemed positive before neoadjuvant therapy, at the time of definitive surgery. Abstract Increasing use of neoadjuvant therapy in large tumors or node positive disease in breast cancer patients or hormone negative and HER 2 overexpressing cancers often gives rise to complete clinical response, with resolution of disease in the breast and axilla. These results have raised important questions to deescalate loco-regional surgical treatment options with minimum recurrence risk and treatment related morbidity. Although there is excellent prognosis following clinical response, the primary goal of surgery still remains to confirm complete pathological response in the biopsied node that was previously positive and now clinically/radiologically negative (ycN0). Biopsied lymph nodes are often marked with a clip to allow future identification at the time of definitive surgery. The goal of lymph node surgery in oncology is that it should be accurate, hence the significance of localizing the biopsied node. This article aims to review the different options to localize the deemed positive node at the time of definitive surgery, in order to help determine pathological response after neoadjuvant therapy.
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Cooper K, Allen E, Lancaster R, Woodard S. From the Reading Room to Operating Room: Retrospective Data and Pictorial Review After 806 SCOUT Placements. Curr Probl Diagn Radiol 2021; 51:460-469. [PMID: 34312015 DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2021.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Non-wire localization techniques are becoming more common. SCOUT surgical guidance system has been shown to increase flexibility in scheduling patients for surgery. The objective of this article is to provide institutional experiences with pictorial review after placement of 806 SCOUT devices. MATERIALS AND METHODS Radiology procedure reports of SCOUT device placements from January 11, 2018 to May 19, 2020 were reviewed to assess demographics of patient population, imaging method of placement, size of reflector delivery system used, placement approach, and time spent in the radiology suite or Turn Around Time (TAT). TAT was compared to that of wire placement using a Two-tailed Mann-Whitney U Test. Reports were assessed for those with absent signal at time of placement. In cases where signal was absent, migration was found, or complications noted, further case review was performed using the Electronic Medical Record to assess whether the devices were successfully retrieved. RESULTS There were 806 total SCOUT placements identified from radiology procedure reports in patients aged 12-92 with 64.3% (518/806) placed using ultrasound-guidance and 35.7% (288/806) by mammographic-guidance. The most common delivery device was a 7.5 cm needle. Only 0.9% (7/806) of SCOUT reflectors were >1cm from target, all of which were successfully excised. After radiology placement, signal was not heard in 1.4% (9/806) of cases and individual case review revealed that all were successfully excised. In 2019, TATs of SCOUT procedures were significantly lower than TATs from wire localizations (P = 0.00024). CONCLUSIONS SCOUT localization for breast surgery can provide solutions to problems encountered by patients and providers. A year after implementation, SCOUT use was found to result in shorter TATs in radiology. In addition, 100% of devices that were either migrated or inaudible at the time of radiology placement were successfully excised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasey Cooper
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL
| | - Elizabeth Allen
- Department of Radiology, Breast Imaging Section, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, A1
| | - Rachael Lancaster
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Stefanie Woodard
- Department of Radiology, Breast Imaging Section, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, A1.
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Balija TM, Braz D, Hyman S, Montgomery LL. Early reflector localization improves the accuracy of localization and excision of a previously positive axillary lymph node following neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 189:121-130. [PMID: 34159474 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06281-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Clipped axillary lymph node (CALN) localization after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for axillary node positive breast cancer can be difficult due to significant shrinkage or disappearance of the CALN after NAC. This study compares wire localization to a radar-based localization system utilizing a reflector that can be placed before or during NAC, in the months before definitive surgery, to facilitate accurate localization and excision of the CALN. METHODS Between 2016 and 2019, women with T0-4 N1-3 M0 breast cancer who underwent NAC followed by axillary surgery with planned excision of a biopsy positive or clinically suspicious axillary node via wire or reflector localization were identified. A retrospective chart review was performed comparing successful localization and CALN retrieval by each localization technique. RESULTS Ninety-nine patients met inclusion criteria. Forty-two patients underwent wire localization while 57 patients underwent reflector localization of the CALN. Successful identification of the CALN by wire or reflector was equivalent (83.3% vs 84.2%, respectively). Twenty-two reflectors placed before or during early/mid NAC (early placement) had 100% successful CALN localization and retrieval in the OR. Placement of wire or reflector localization devices within 8 weeks of surgery (late placement) only resulted in 79.2% localization success (p = .02). CONCLUSION This study suggests a benefit of axillary lymph node reflector placement in the early NAC setting. Early reflector placement allows for more accurate excision of the CALN during axillary surgery after NAC as compared to placement of localization wires or reflectors in the few weeks prior to surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara M Balija
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, 20 Prospect Avenue, Suite 402, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA.
| | - Devin Braz
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, 20 Prospect Avenue, Suite 402, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Sara Hyman
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, 20 Prospect Avenue, Suite 402, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Leslie L Montgomery
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, 20 Prospect Avenue, Suite 402, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
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Reflector-Guided Localisation of Non-Palpable Breast Lesions: A Prospective Evaluation of the SAVI SCOUT ® System. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102409. [PMID: 34067552 PMCID: PMC8156313 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Marking impalpable areas of breast cancer prior to surgery is an important part of the modern treatment of breast cancer. Traditionally, the target lesion would be marked by a wire just before surgery under image guidance and would help the surgeon locate the tumour during surgery. However, this method has some drawbacks, such as patient discomfort, the risk of migration and dislodgement, and the need to couple surgical and radiological schedules. Therefore, there has been a growing interest in this system, thus supporting its potential. In this study, we have evaluated one such system, SAVI SCOUT®, in 63 consecutive patients. Our experience with this system supported its potential role in modern breast surgery. Abstract Wire-guided localisation (WGL) has been the mainstay for localising non-palpable breast lesions before excision. Due to its limitations, various wireless alternatives have been developed. In this prospective study, we evaluate the role of radiation-free wireless localisation using the SAVI SCOUT® system at the London Breast Institute. A total of 72 reflectors were deployed in 67 consecutive patients undergoing breast conserving surgery for non-palpable breast lesions. The mean interval between deployment and surgery for the therapeutic cases was 18.8 days (range: 0–210). The median deployment duration was 5 min (range: 1–15 min). The mean distance from the lesion was 1.1 mm (median distance: 0; range: 0–20 mm). The rate of surgical localisation and retrieval of the reflector was 98.6% and 100%, respectively. The median operating time was 28 min (range: 15–55 min) for the therapeutic excision of malignancy and 17 min (range: 15–24) for diagnostic excision. The incidence of reflector migration was 0%. Radial margin positivity in malignant cases was 7%. The median weight for malignant lesions was 19.6 g (range: 3.5–70 g). Radiologists and surgeons rated the system higher than WGL (93.7% and 98.6%, respectively; 60/64 and 70/71). The patient mean satisfaction score was 9.7/10 (n = 47, median = 10; range: 7–10). One instance of signal failure was reported. In patients who had breast MRI after the deployment of the reflector, the MRI void signal was <5 mm (n = 6). There was no specific technique-related surgical complication. Our study demonstrates that wire-free localisation using SAVI SCOUT® is an effective and time-efficient alternative to WGL with excellent physician and patient acceptance.
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Banys-Paluchowski M, Gasparri ML, de Boniface J, Gentilini O, Stickeler E, Hartmann S, Thill M, Rubio IT, Di Micco R, Bonci EA, Niinikoski L, Kontos M, Karadeniz Cakmak G, Hauptmann M, Peintinger F, Pinto D, Matrai Z, Murawa D, Kadayaprath G, Dostalek L, Nina H, Krivorotko P, Classe JM, Schlichting E, Appelgren M, Paluchowski P, Solbach C, Blohmer JU, Kühn T. Surgical Management of the Axilla in Clinically Node-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Converting to Clinical Node Negativity through Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Current Status, Knowledge Gaps, and Rationale for the EUBREAST-03 AXSANA Study. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1565. [PMID: 33805367 PMCID: PMC8037995 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, surgical methods for axillary staging in breast cancer patients have become less extensive, and full axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) is confined to selected patients. In initially node-positive patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy, however, the optimal management remains unclear. Current guidelines vary widely, endorsing different strategies. We performed a literature review on axillary staging strategies and their place in international recommendations. This overview defines knowledge gaps associated with specific procedures, summarizes currently ongoing clinical trials that address these unsolved issues, and provides the rationale for further research. While some guidelines have already implemented surgical de-escalation, replacing ALND with, e.g., sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) or targeted axillary dissection (TAD) in cN+ patients converting to clinical node negativity, others recommend ALND. Numerous techniques are in use for tagging lymph node metastasis, but many questions regarding the marking technique, i.e., the optimal time for marker placement and the number of marked nodes, remain unanswered. The optimal number of SLNs to be excised also remains a matter of debate. Data on oncological safety and quality of life following different staging procedures are lacking. These results provide the rationale for the multinational prospective cohort study AXSANA initiated by EUBREAST, which started enrollment in June 2020 and aims at recruiting 3000 patients in 20 countries (NCT04373655; Funded by AGO-B, Claudia von Schilling Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, AWOgyn, EndoMag, Mammotome, and MeritMedical).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Banys-Paluchowski
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Campus Lübeck, University Hospital of Schleswig Holstein, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Maria Luisa Gasparri
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland;
- Faculty of Biomedicine, University of the Italian Switzerland (USI), 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Jana de Boniface
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (J.d.B.); (M.A.)
- Department of Surgery, Capio St. Göran’s Hospital, 112 19 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Oreste Gentilini
- Breast Surgery Unit, San Raffaele Hospital Milan, 20132 Milano MI, Italy; (O.G.); (R.D.M.)
| | - Elmar Stickeler
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Steffi Hartmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Rostock, 18059 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Marc Thill
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, AGAPLESION Markus Krankenhaus, 60431 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
| | - Isabel T. Rubio
- Breast Surgical Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 28027 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Rosa Di Micco
- Breast Surgery Unit, San Raffaele Hospital Milan, 20132 Milano MI, Italy; (O.G.); (R.D.M.)
| | - Eduard-Alexandru Bonci
- Department of Surgical Oncology, “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuță” Institute of Oncology, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- 11th Department of Oncological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Laura Niinikoski
- Breast Surgery Unit, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00280 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Michalis Kontos
- 1st Department of Surgery, Laiko Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Guldeniz Karadeniz Cakmak
- Breast and Endocrine Unit, General Surgery Department, Zonguldak BEUN The School of Medicine, Kozlu/Zonguldak 67600, Turkey;
| | - Michael Hauptmann
- Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, 16816 Neuruppin, Germany;
| | | | - David Pinto
- Champalimaud Clinical Center, Breast Unit, Champalimaud Foundation, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Zoltan Matrai
- Department of Breast and Sarcoma Surgery, National Institute of Oncology, 1122 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Dawid Murawa
- Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Góra, 65-046 Zielona Góra, Poland;
| | - Geeta Kadayaprath
- Breast Surgical Oncology and Oncoplastic Surgery, Max Institute of Cancer Care, Max Healthcare Delhi, Delhi 110092, India;
| | - Lukas Dostalek
- Gynecologic Oncology Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Helidon Nina
- Oncology Hospital, University Hospital Center “Nene Tereza”, 1000 Tirana, Albania;
| | - Petr Krivorotko
- Petrov Research Institute of Oncology, 197758 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Jean-Marc Classe
- Department of surgical oncology, Institut de cancerologie de l’Ouest Nantes, 44800 Saint Herblain, France;
| | - Ellen Schlichting
- Department for Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, 0188 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Matilda Appelgren
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (J.d.B.); (M.A.)
| | - Peter Paluchowski
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Regio Klinikum Pinneberg, 25421 Pinneberg, Germany;
| | - Christine Solbach
- Breast Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
| | - Jens-Uwe Blohmer
- Department of Gynecology and Breast Cancer Center, Charite Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Thorsten Kühn
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum Esslingen, 73730 Esslingen, Germany;
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The Evolving Role of Marked Lymph Node Biopsy (MLNB) and Targeted Axillary Dissection (TAD) after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy (NACT) for Node-Positive Breast Cancer: Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071539. [PMID: 33810544 PMCID: PMC8037051 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The 5-year survival rate for patients with breast cancer, in whom disease has spread to local lymph nodes, is 85%. However, many live with the complications of surgery to remove the lymph nodes in the armpit thus impacting their quality of life. In recent years, new approaches have been developed to minimise surgery and reduce complications. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the feasibility and accuracy of two minimally invasive surgical procedures, Marked Lymph Node Biopsy and Targeted Axillary Dissection as an alternative to complete removal of the axillary lymph nodes after upfront chemotherapy in patients in whom cancer spread to the regional lymph nodes. Our findings confirm that these procedures can safely replace more radical surgery in women who have responded well to upfront drug treatment. Therefore, although further research to determine long-term outcomes is required, this review concludes that it is reasonable to offer such patients the option of less invasive surgery thus avoiding over treatment and enhancing quality of life. Abstract Targeted axillary dissection (TAD) is a new axillary staging technique that consists of the surgical removal of biopsy-proven positive axillary nodes, which are marked (marked lymph node biopsy (MLNB)) prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in addition to the sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). In a meta-analysis of more than 3000 patients, we previously reported a false-negative rate (FNR) of 13% using the SLNB alone in this setting. The aim of this systematic review and pooled analysis is to determine the FNR of MLNB alone and TAD (MLNB plus SLNB) compared with the gold standard of complete axillary lymph node dissection (cALND). The PubMed, Cochrane and Google Scholar databases were searched using MeSH-relevant terms and free words. A total of 9 studies of 366 patients that met the inclusion criteria evaluating the FNR of MLNB alone were included in the pooled analysis, yielding a pooled FNR of 6.28% (95% CI: 3.98–9.43). In 13 studies spanning 521 patients, the addition of SLNB to MLNB (TAD) was associated with a FNR of 5.18% (95% CI: 3.41–7.54), which was not significantly different from that of MLNB alone (p = 0.48). Data regarding the oncological safety of this approach were lacking. In a separate analysis of all published studies reporting successful identification and surgical retrieval of the MLN, we calculated a pooled success rate of 90.0% (95% CI: 85.1–95.1). The present pooled analysis demonstrates that the FNR associated with MLNB alone or combined with SLNB is acceptably low and both approaches are highly accurate in staging the axilla in patients with node-positive breast cancer after NACT. The SLNB adds minimal new information and therefore can be safely omitted from TAD. Further research to confirm the oncological safety of this de-escalation approach of axillary surgery is required. MLNB alone and TAD are associated with acceptably low FNRs and represent valid alternatives to cALND in patients with node-positive breast cancer after excellent response to NACT.
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