Evaluation of Rib Fractures Following Breast Brachytherapy for Breast Cancer

Abstract

Purpose: Partial breast radiation is currently being used in a significant proportion of early stage breast cancers. While there have been numerous studies describing late term complications, most have involved skin reactions and cosmesis with few reporting the effect on underlying ribs. This report looks at the incidence of rib fractures after partial breast radiation at our institution with an emphasis on rib dose.