The lump or tumour, is removed with a small amount of surrounding tissue (the margins.)
A segment of the breast containing the tumour is removed.
The location and amount of the segment removed depends on the site and size of the underlying cancer.
In this operation the breast is removed completely.
There are several reasons why a total mastectomy may be needed.
The reasons for the operation will always be explained.
At operation a very small vacuum tube drain, 2mm in diameter, is usually inserted in order to prevent undue bruising.
In order to obtain the best possible cosmetic result the skin wound is closed in three layers. The deep breast tissue is closed with soluble stitches, which are gradually absorbed by the body. Some thickening may occur under the scar for a few months, while this process occurs and the wound settles. The closure is completed by a single subcuticular suture with steristrips holding the skin edges together.
This is carried out to restore the shape of the breast following mastectomy. There are a number of different techniques used to achieve the reconstruction. These will be explained and discussed with the patient as part of the treatment process by both the Breast Surgeon and also the Plastic Surgeon.
It may be undertaken immediately after the mastectomy by the surgeon who carried out the procedure (a oncoplastic surgeon), or by a plastic surgeon working with the breast surgeon.
Alternatively it may be carried out at a later date. If this is planned provision will be made for the subsequent procedure at the time of the mastectomy. Patients, who choose not to have reconstructive surgery, will be advised about prostheses (false breasts).
At operation a very small vacuum tube drain, 3mm in diameter, is usually inserted in order to prevent undue bruising.
In order to obtain the best possible cosmetic result the skin wound is closed in three layers. The deep breast tissue is closed with soluble stitches, which are gradually absorbed by the body. Some thickening may occur under the scar for a few months, while this process occurs and the wound settles. The closure is completed by a single subcuticular suture with steristrips holding the skin edges together.
This type of excision biopsy is indicated when patients have an abnormality that is visible on a mammogram or ultrasound but cannot be felt in clinical examination.
To assist the Surgeon, the site of the abnormality to be biopsied is marked by a Consultant Radiologist, with a Magseed or skin marking (localisation), using either mammography or ultrasound.
This type of excision biopsy is indicated when patients have an abnormality that is visible on a mammogram or ultrasound but cannot be felt in clinical examination.
To assist the Surgeon, the site of the abnormality to be biopsied is marked by a Consultant Radiologist, with a guide-wire or skin marking (localisation), using either mammography or ultrasound.
The tissue excised undergoes instant preliminary analysis in the operating theatre by a Histopathologist.
The tissue examined can include the section which appeared abnormal and the margins or surrounding area. The specimen will subsequently receive more detailed analysis in a laboratory.
Lymph nodes or glands are removed through the axilla or armpit, to ascertain whether the cancer has spread to the lymph glands.
This is usually undertaken at the same time as surgery to remove a tumour. If the cancer is near the axilla a single incision can be used.
During a mastectomy, the gland will be removed through the mastectomy incision.
The lymph nodes removed will be analysed by a Histopathologist.
This technique has been the subject of a number of clinical trials around the world.
It is used to identify whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. It involves injecting a small amount of iron oxide and a dye, which identifies the sentinel node, this is the first node to receive lymph fluid from a tumour.
If the sentinel node is clear, it usually means that the other nodes are clear and removal of further lymph nodes under the arm may not be necessary.