Breast-conserving treatment for stage I and II cancer: tumours excision, axillary dissection, peri-operative interstitial irradiation, with or without peri-operative chemotherapy, followed by breast irradiation - the Tygerberg Hospital experience

Date
1989
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Health & Medical Publishing Group
Abstract
Since 1984 breast-conserving treatment has been the treatment of choice for patients at Tygerberg Hospital with early breast cancer. Peri-operative interstitial brachytherapy in breast cancer is described in detail. In the 221 patients treated (225 breasts), 197 breasts received iridium implants and 26 patients received peri-operative chemotherapy (POPFAC). There were 6 recurrences in treated breasts, 3 within the booster area and 3 outside. There were 5 salvage mastectomies, and 1 patient was treated by excision and radiotherapy. Metastases developed in 27 patients. Two patients underwent mastectomy for severe radiation changes and 7 developed postoperative wound infection after POPFAC. Five patients, who had re-excisions and prolonged seroma formation, developed delayed wound infection after POPFAC. Five patients, who had re-excisions and prolonged seroma formation, developed delayed wound infection. The importance of mammography, patient selection, tumour-free margins and radiation dosage are discussed.
Description
CITATION: Van Zyl, J. A. & Muller, A. G. S. 1989. Breast-conserving treatment for stage I and II cancer: tumours excision, axillary dissection, peri-operative interstitial irradiation, with or without peri-operative chemotherapy, followed by breast irradiation - the Tygerberg Hospital experience. South African Medical Journal, 75:519-523.
The original publication is available at http://www.samj.org.za
Keywords
Breast -- Cancer
Citation