Abstract
A re-examination of the statistical methods used to develop the claim that radiation postoperatively decreases survival was carried out. This study demonstrates that a) when correct figures are used, statistical significance is not demonstrated, i.e. there is not statistically significant evidence that irradiation of the peripheral lymphatics and/or chest wall following mastectomy has a deleterious effect on survival, b) the use of the Mantel-Haenszel procedure was inappropriate for the purpose for which it was used. A survey of the available evidence fails to substatiate the claim that the immunological system effects of local irradiation relate in any way to decreased survival. Recommendations for the use of irradiation postoperatively in the treatment of breast cancer are made.
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