What Procedures Are Involved in Breast Cancer Treatment?
Wondering about what procedures are involved in breast cancer treatment? From diagnosis to surgery and reconstruction, here’s a clear breakdown of the main steps involved.
🩺 Diagnostic Tests & Biopsies
- Mammography, ultrasound, MRI: Imaging to detect and locate breast abnormalities.([turn0search12])
- Biopsies: • Fine‑needle aspiration (FNA) or core‑needle biopsy for tissue sampling. • Incisional or excisional biopsy (lumpectomy) to evaluate or remove suspicious areas.([turn0search0])
🩹 Surgical Treatment Options
- Lumpectomy: Removes the tumor plus a margin of healthy tissue—also called breast-conserving surgery.([turn0search2])
- Mastectomy: Entire breast removal—options include simple, skin-sparing, or nipple-sparing mastectomy depending on disease and preference.([turn0search2])
- Lymph Node Surgery: Sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary dissection to assess cancer spread.([turn0search0])
- Wire Localization: Used to pinpoint hard-to-find tumors before surgery via imaging guidance.([turn0search8])
🧠Breast Reconstruction
- Rebuilds breast shape post-mastectomy using either implants or tissue flap procedures (e.g., DIEP flap). Can be done immediately or delayed.([turn0search8])
✅ Summary Table
| Procedure Stage | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Imaging & Biopsy | Detects and diagnoses cancer |
| Lumpectomy | Removes tumor while conserving breast |
| Mastectomy | Removes entire breast tissue |
| Lymph Node Surgery | Checks if cancer has spread |
| Breast Reconstruction | Restores shape after removal |
🧠Takeaway
Breast cancer treatment involves a multi-step process—starting with imaging and biopsies, moving to surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy with lymph node evaluation), and potentially reconstruction. Each step is personalized based on diagnosis, stage, and patient goals.
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