Intra-operative digital specimen radiology reduces re-operation rates in therapeutic mammaplasty for breast cancer

Abstract

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate our experience with intra-operative imaging of therapeutic mammaplasty specimens at Edinburgh Breast Unit. MethodsA retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent therapeutic mammaplasty in Edinburgh Breast Unit between 2007 and 2013 who had intraoperative specimen radiography. Results98 (100%) patients who underwent therapeutic mammaplasty for breast cancer had intra-operative imaging using the faxitron® system. 3 out of those 97 (3%) patients had a re-operation because of positive margins confirmed pathologically on cavity excision specimens, but only 1 out of 3 (1%) patients had residual breast cancer present within the re-excision specimen. None required mastectomy. Median age was 58 (range 34–81). Median follow up was 3.1 years (range 6 months – 5.5 years). There was no local recurrence or conversion to mastectomy in this group. ConclusionComplete excision rate in patients who had intra-operative imaging during therapeutic mammaplsty procedure was 97% in our group. Faxitron® system is a useful adjunct in helping to achieve low incomplete excision rates.