Clinical observation of early breast cancer after breastconserving surgery and radiotherapy

Abstract

Objective To observe the oncololigcal and cosmetic outcomes and complication of breastconserving surgery and radiotherapy for early breast cancer. Methods A total of 78 early breast cancer patients, who were treated in the First People's Hospital of Pingdingshan between January 2001 and September 2008, were identified and followed. Among them, 36 were in stage Ⅰ and 42 in stage Ⅱ. Tangential irradiation was used with a dose of 50 Gy. Tumor bed received a boost dose of 10 Gy electron beam. For axillary lymph node-positive patients, ipsilateral supraclavicular field was hybrid irradiated with 50 Gy X and electron beam.Results The total follow-up ranged from 6 to 98 months. Local recurrence was observed among 4.9% of the patients. The 3-year and 5-year overall survival rate were 96.6% and 92.7% ,respectively. The breast cosmetic satisfaction rate was 94.9%. The main complications reported were acute skin reaction and upper limb edema.Conclusion Breast-conserving surgery and post-operative radiotherapy in early breast cancer patients can lead to satisfactory survival rates and cosmetic effects and hence improved life quality. Key words: Breast neoplasms; Breast conserving therapy; Radiotherapy