For patients with breast cancer, regardless of the stage of the disease at diagnosis, a modified radical mastectomy has long been regarded as the only surgical option. Over years, this approach has considerably changed, and mastectomy is no longer as frequent choice. If a tumor is large or thus situated that requires removal of the entire breast, a mastectomy, however, is still the best surgical option.
Surgical removal of the axillary lymph nodes, associated with radical or conservation breast surgery, makes an integral part of surgical treatment for breast cancer. Based on the pathohistological evaluation of the removed nodes, we determine the stage of the disease (pN status) to assess the risk of developing metastatic disease. Pathohistological examination of axillary lymph nodes is therefore a key prognostic factor for decision-making and choosing an adequate systemic therapy.
Surgical procedures to the axilla may vary in their extent, from a lymph node sampling to complete removal of the underarm lymph nodes.
Mastectomy
- A. Breast tissue to be removed shaded in pink
- B. Axillary lymph nodes: level I
- C. Axillary lymph nodes: level II
- D. Axillary lymph nodes: level III
Breast reconstruction following the above radical procedures is our standard option.
