Breast Surgeons Research Articles

Image-Guided Breast Conserving Surgery

Background: Breast-conserving surgery (BCS) has gained wide acceptance as the treatment of choice for early-stage breast cancer. One of the primary goals of BCS is to obtain tumor-free resection margins. In practice, the excision of a palpable breast carcinoma is guided by preoperative diagnostic images and the intraoperative tactile skills of the surgeon. The somewhat ‘blind’ approach of using palpation-guided surgery is known to be highly inaccurate, with studies worldwide reporting positive resection margins in up to 41% of patients. In recent years, ultrasonography has emerged as an effective guidance tool during surgery and ultrasound-guided surgery has been introduced into breast cancer surgery as a method of excising nonpalpable breast cancer. Objective: The aim of this study is comparing ultrasound-guided vs palpation-guided conservative breast surgery in obtaining tumor-free resection margins. Methods: This study was a prospective randomized controlled clinical trial where patients with early breast cancer (T1-T2) and eligible for breast conserving surgery are randomly assigned (1:1) into two arms. Arm A: included the patients who will undergo ultrasound-guided breast conserving surgery. Arm B: included the patients who will undergo the conventional palpation-guided breast conserving surgery. Results: Overall, 142 patients undergoing breast conserving surgery were enrolled: 71 were allocated to the Ultrasound-guided (US) group (Arm A) and 71 to the Palpation-guided (PG) group (Arm B). Patient and tumor characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Age, Body mass index, tumor laterality, tumor location and tumor stage were comparable in both groups and statistically insignificant. Despite that the final tumor size was comparable between both groups, IOUS significantly reduced the main specimen volume and the least negative margin width (p<0.001). The median operative time was significantly longer in the US group bey around 27 min than in the PG group and this was statistically significant in favor of the PG surgery (p<0.001). The involved resection margin rate was significantly higher in the PG group and thus the need for reoperation (p<0.001). Conclusion: IOUS is the only method allowing a true real-time visualization and continuous control of resection margins during all phases of BCS. In our single-institution study, IOUS demonstrated clear superiority over palpation-guided surgery in both oncological and surgical outcomes except for the operative time (smaller excision volume yet, with optimum resection margins). IOUs provides much better tumor localization in small breasts with dense fibroadenosis. Since all the other available localization techniques (including palpation) limit the surgeon’s visual guidance during BCS, IOUS could be regarded as one of the most significant modern technological innovations in the field of breast cancer surgery, restoring sight to the breast surgeon. Our findings strongly suggests that the integration of IOUS in breast conserving surgery could be regarded as a highly beneficial surgical approach.

Self-Reported Management of Inflammatory Breast Cancer Among the American Society of Breast Surgeons Membership: Consensus and Opportunities.

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is rare and biologically aggressive. We sought to assess diagnostic and management strategies among the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) membership. An anonymous survey was distributed to ASBrS members from March to May 2023. The survey included questions about respondents' demographics and information related to stage III and IV IBC management. Agreement was defined as a shared response by >80% of respondents. In areas of disagreement, responses were stratified by years in practice, fellowship training, and annual IBC patient volume. The survey was administered to 2337 members with 399 (17.1%) completing all questions and defining the study cohort. Distribution of years in practice was 26.0% 0-10 years, 26.6% 11-20 years and 47.4% > 20 years. Overall, 51.2% reported surgical oncology or breast fellowship training, 69.2% maintain a breast-only practice, and 73.5% treat < 5 IBC cases/year. Agreement was identified in diagnostic imaging, trimodal therapy, and mastectomy with wide skin excision for stage III IBC. Lack of agreement was identified in surgical management of the axilla; respondents with < 10 years in practice or fellowship training were more likely to perform axillary dissection for cN0-N2 stage III IBC. Locoregional management of stage IV IBC was variable. Among ASBrS members, there is consensus in diagnostic evaluation, treatment sequencing and surgical approach to the breast in stage III IBC. Differences exist in surgical management of the cN0-2 axilla with uptake of de-escalation strategies. Clinical trials are needed to evaluate oncologic safety of de-escalation in this high-risk population.

Questionnaire survey of healthcare professionals on taxane-induced nail change in Japan.

Taxanes are widely used chemotherapeutic agents that frequently cause nail changes and have a significant impact on patients' quality of life. Despite the prevalence of taxane-induced nail toxicity, limited data are available regarding evidence-based management strategies for the prevention or treatment of taxane-induced nail changes. Therefore, we aimed to gain insights into the prevention, treatment, and evaluation of nail changes in patients with cancer in Japan by conducting a questionnaire survey of physicians, pharmacists, and nurses involved in oncology treatment. The questions addressed prophylactic methods, evaluation practices, and treatment approaches for various nail disorders. The questionnaires were distributed on March 1, 2022, with a response deadline of December 1, 2022. Of the 120 questionnaires distributed, 88 (73.3%) were returned, and all of them were analyzed. The respondents included 69 physicians (32 oncologists, 26 breast surgeons, 6 dermatologists, 3 obstetricians/gynecologists, 1 gastroenterological surgeon, and 1 urologist), 9 pharmacists, and 10 nurses. Prophylactic measures included moisturizing (58.0%), protection (42.0%), cooling therapy (37.5%), and cleanliness (33.0%). Approximately 70% of the respondents used the Common Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), while approximately 30% did not use a specific evaluation method. Opinions regarding treatment with antimicrobial or corticosteroid ointments varied; however, all severe cases were referred by dermatologists. Our survey revealed that the management of chemotherapy-induced nail changes varies in clinical practice in Japan. These findings emphasize the need for standardized management strategies and further research.

ThP1.6 - Chaperone in Breast Examination: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Patient and Clinician Perspectives, and Documentation

Abstract Aims The use of chaperones during breast examination is a logical step, particularly in an increasingly litigious society. This review aims to summarise the current information regarding patients’ and clinicians’ perspective in chaperone use in both specialities. Methods A PRISMA compliant search was conducted in electronic databases from inception until April 2023 for qualitative literature regarding patients and clinician perspective in chaperone use in breast and plastic surgery. An inductive thematic analysis in three domains (physician-associated, patient-associated factors and chaperone documentation) was done. Results 10 studies were included after screening 939 articles. Regarding breast surgery, the presence of male and older surgeons, nurse availability, rural setting, and patients’ psychiatric comorbidities were found to increase the propensity of having a chaperone present during consultations. With medico-legal concerns being a prominent factor for male breast surgeons, female breast surgeons highlighted the need for technical support as their main motivation for having a chaperone while logistical issue was a common hindrance. Gender of physicians remained to be an important factor for patients, but conflicting evidence was found regarding patient preferences for chaperone and purpose for having a chaperone present during consultations. Poor documentation was generally observed despite implementing quality improvement projects. Conclusion This study emphasizes the vital role of chaperones in clinical practice, urging a precise definition and targeted resolution for implementation challenges. Patient preferences highlight the need for a personalized approach, and increased awareness among healthcare professionals is essential.

ThP1.11 - Harnessing digital consent analytics to highlight multicentre operative and consent trends in breast surgery

Abstract Introduction Paper-based consent is difficult to audit at scale, therefore hospital episode statistics data is used to provide insights into national breast surgical practice. However, as digital consent is becoming routine, analysis of amalgamated data is possible to provide a better understanding of consent practice. Methods Between 22/04/2020-29/11/23, patient anonymised digital consent data was analysed retrospectively using Concentric Health analytics (Audit ID:1123ABS). Inclusion criteria required the responsible clinician to be a breast surgeon, with non-breast surgical procedures excluded. Results n=6860 digital consent episodes were performed across 10 NHS Trusts and 4 private institutions (n=890 unique operations. n=82 unique responsible clinicians, n=191 consenting clinicians). 45.6% (n=3125/6860) of the cases were consented by consultants. 18.7% (n=1286/6860) underwent a mastectomy; 78.5% simple &amp; 21.5% reconstruction (of which 82.6% implant and 17.4% autologous reconstruction). 40.1% (n=2750/6860) underwent breast conserving surgery (79.2% WLE, 18.9% therapeutic mammoplasty, 1.9% Intercostal perforator). Re-excision of margins accounted for 16% of BCS cases (n=441/2750). SLNB was performed in 40.6% and ANC in 11.5% of all breast surgery cases. Regarding localisation; 44.5% Seed, 30.6% Wire, 21.7% palpable/other, 3.2% USS skin mark. Conclusion As well as providing benefits in terms of information sharing and improved patient satisfaction, digital consent also provides an opportunity to provide high-level data, regarding which operations are being consented to, when and by whom.

True Cost Drivers for Overnight Admission after Same Day Mastectomy: An Opportunity for Breast Surgeon Certification?

True Cost Drivers for Overnight Admission after Same Day Mastectomy: An Opportunity for Breast Surgeon Certification?

Factors influencing prophylactic surgical intervention in women with genetic predisposition for breast cancer.

In the United States, 5%-10% of breast cancer cases are due to genetic predisposition. Among this population, prophylactic mastectomy is viable risk-reducing option. The objective of this study is to understand the timing to prophylactic mastectomy in patients with genetic predisposition to breast cancer and uncover factors influencing this decision. This study is a retrospective review of patients diagnosed with genetic predisposition for breast cancer from 2010 to 2020. In a cohort of 506 patients with genetic predisposition for breast cancer, 154 (30.4%) underwent prophylactic mastectomy, the remainder opted for surveillance alone. The median time from diagnosis to mastectomy was 1.1 years (IQR, 0.5-3.1 years). During the surveillance period, 118 patients (33.5%) underwent breast biopsy. Of the patients with benign or atypical findings, 35 (36.8%) pursued prophylactic mastectomy, a median of 0.5 years (IQR, 0.2-1.6 years) after their gene diagnosis. The most common factor impacting the decision to undergo prophylactic mastectomy was having a family member with cancer (54.7%) followed by a personal diagnosis of other cancer(s) (27.5%). Understanding the factors influencing the decision to undergo prophylactic surgery will allow for more effective shared decision-making for primary care providers, breast surgeons, and reconstructive surgeons.

Improving quality of breast conservative surgery for lower quadrants cancer in small and medium sized breasts: Crescent technique versus J mammoplasty.

For medium/small size breast, breast conserving surgery (BCS) is usually associated to poor cosmetic results. The objective of the study is to evaluate oncological safety and cosmetic results comparing the "Crescent" and the "J" mammoplasty technique and to develop an algorithm for the treatment of breast cancer located in lower quadrants in medium/small breast. We retrospectively analysed all consecutive patients who underwent a "J" mammoplasty or a "Crescent" technique at AUSL IRCCS Reggio Emilia between 2016 and 2021. Fifty-eight patients were enrolled, the first group including 29 "Crescent" technique procedures and the second one including 29 patients who underwent the "J" mammoplasty technique. Oncological safety and surgical minor and major complications were evaluated. Aesthetic results were evaluated by two senior breast surgeons, independently, at least 6 months after radiotherapy (RT). At follow-up of 36 months, no recurrences and no major complications were observed in both groups. Minor complications were observed in two (6.9%) "J" group cases and in six (20.7%) "Crescent" ones (P<0.05). The 96.6% of "Crescent" and the 73.5% of "J" cases were judged excellent/good. One (3.4%) "Crescent" was judged fair versus six (20.7%) "J" mammoplasty. Two (6.9%) "J" cases were judged poor, requiring ipsilateral re-operation. When a favourable ratio between tumor size and breast volume is present, BCS can be performed for tumors located in the lower quadrants. Evaluating patients' anthropometric characteristics, skin involvement and tumor features is the key to select the right technique and to obtain both great cosmetic result and low rate of complications.

The Brussels Breast Surgery Fellowship | A Three-Month Experience in Advancing Skills in Breast Surgery.

The Brussels Breast Surgery Fellowship at Brussels University Hospital offers a unique 3-month clinical immersion in reconstructive and aesthetic breast surgery. Under the guidance of fellowship director Prof. Moustapha Hamdi and his esteemed colleagues, the fellow is exposed to a high volume and wide breadth of cases spanning autologous and implant-based breast reconstruction, oncoplastic surgery, breast reduction and mastopexy, implant augmentation, revision breast surgery, and fat grafting. The multidisciplinary team approach, involving close collaboration with breast surgeons, provides valuable experience in oncoplastic planning and execution. In addition to time in the operating theater, the fellow gains knowledge through outpatient clinics, didactic teaching sessions, and clinical research opportunities leveraging the department's extensive prospective database. As the 2023 fellowship awardee, I had the privilege of learning directly from Prof. Dr. Moustapha Hamdi and participating in over 130 cases across the reconstructive and aesthetic spectrum. Unique features of the fellowship included exposure to lymphedema surgery utilizing the Symani robotic system, advanced techniques like the internal bra, volume distribution mastopexies, observation of private aesthetic clinic cases, and optional participation in academic workshops. This fellowship represents an outstanding opportunity to refine one's skills in breast surgery and microsurgery while experiencing the rich culture of Belgium.

The therapeutic value of ipsilateral supraclavicular lymphadenectomy in locally advanced breast cancer: A review.

The treatment of isolated ipsilateral supraclavicular lymph node metastasis for locally advanced breast cancer has always been a controversial issue for breast surgeons. However, with the further understanding of the metastasis and treatment of breast cancer, it is now considered to be a locally advanced disease, and there is a new debate on the treatment of isolated ipsilateral supraclavicular lymph node metastasis. The author reviewed the relevant literature and briefly discussed the clinical significance of supraclavicular lymph node resection in patients with locally advanced breast cancer presenting with isolated ipsilateral supraclavicular lymph node metastasis.

A comparative study of learning curves among general surgery residents for intraoperative ultrasound-guided breast-conserving surgery

Breast-conserving surgery (BCS) followed by radiotherapy is preferred for early-stage breast cancer because its survival rate is equivalent to that of mastectomy. Achieving negative surgical margins in BCS is crucial to minimize the risk of recurrence. Intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) enhances surgical accuracy, but its efficacy is operator dependent. This study aimed to compare the success of achieving negative margins using IOUS between an experienced breast surgeon and general surgical residents and to evaluate the learning curve for the residents. A prospective study involving 96 patients with BCS who underwent IOUS guidance was conducted. Both the breast surgeon and residents assessed the surgical margins using IOUS, with the breast surgeon making the final margin adequacy decision. Permanent histopathological analysis was used to confirm the status of the margins and was considered the gold standard for comparison. The breast surgeon accurately assessed the margin status in all 96 cases (100% accuracy), with 93 negative and three positive margins. All of these were ductal carcinomas in situ. Initially, the residents demonstrated low accuracy rates in predicting margin positivity using intraoperative ultrasonography. However, the learning curves of the three residents demonstrated that, with an average 12th case onwards, a significant improvement in the cumulative accuracy rates was observed, which reached the level of the breast surgeon. IOUS is an effective tool for accurately predicting the margin status in BCS, with an acceptable learning curve for novice surgeons. Training and experience are pivotal for optimizing surgical outcomes. These findings support the integration of IOUS training into surgical education programs to enhance proficiency and improve patient outcomes.

ASO Visual Abstract: Self-Reported Management of Inflammatory Breast Cancer Among the American Society of Breast Surgeons Membership-Consensus and Opportunities.

ASO Visual Abstract: Self-Reported Management of Inflammatory Breast Cancer Among the American Society of Breast Surgeons Membership-Consensus and Opportunities.

ASO Visual Abstract: Contemporary Axillary Surgical Management in Patients with Pathologically Node-Positive Disease After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Survey of Members of the American Society of Breast Surgeons.

ASO Visual Abstract: Contemporary Axillary Surgical Management in Patients with Pathologically Node-Positive Disease After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Survey of Members of the American Society of Breast Surgeons.

Current State of Evidence-Based Long-Term Monitoring Protocols for Breast Plastic Surgery Patients

BackgroundRecommendations for breast surveillance following breast plastic surgery are frequently changing. Establishing guidelines for long-term monitoring protocols may help identify treatable conditions and prevent untoward sequelae. We sought to evaluate the current state of evidence-based long-term monitoring protocols for patients following breast augmentation, reduction, and breast reconstruction.MethodsOfficial guidelines from various American societies and international societies were analyzed for alignment in evidence-based recommendations regarding breast surveillance.ResultsThe most recent US FDA update recommends magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound starting 5–6 years after surgery and every 2–3 years thereafter. Discrepancies exist among professional societies: the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) aligns with the FDA, while the American Society of Breast Surgeons and American College of Radiology (ACR) find no role for imaging for asymptomatic cases. Ultrasound is first-line for any implant concerns, with MRI if necessary. European societies oppose routine breast implant imaging. Breast reduction patients lack unique screening protocols; monitoring aligns with age and cancer risk factors. Following mastectomy and breast reconstruction, most organizations advocate for annual clinical examinations, with more frequent examinations initially. Evidence suggests that physical examination is sufficient to detect local cancer recurrence, with imaging only indicated if there is concern for recurrence. No surveillance imaging is recommended by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, or ASPS; however, ACR recommends mammography for autologous reconstruction only.ConclusionMultispecialty and regulatory body alignment may promote provider and patient adherence. Ongoing studies of long-term outcomes are needed to strengthen the level of evidence for monitoring guidelines.

Evaluating the Effect of MarginProbe® Use on Re-excisions After Partial Mastectomy: A Single-Institution Analysis.

Breast conservation therapy is a widely accepted approach in treating breast cancer, yet the average re-excision rates are approximately 25% despite surgical advancements. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved MarginProbe® device uses radiofrequency spectroscopy for intraoperative margin assessment, potentially reducing re-excision rates. This study evaluated the effectiveness of MarginProbe® in reducing re-excisions compared with standard of care (SOC). A prospective cohort with MarginProbe® usage during partial mastectomies from June 2019 to July 2023 (153 patients) was compared with a retrospective control group without the device from January 2015 to May 2019 (300 patients). Both groups underwent partial mastectomies performed by two breast surgeons. Positive margins were defined as tumor on ink for invasive cancers and within 2 mm for ductal carcinoma in situ. When control was used for patient demographics and tumor characteristics, the findings showed that MarginProbe® significantly decreased the probability of re-excision by 58% (p<0.001), although it led to a higher shave volume, with an average of 9.8cc additional tissue removed compared with SOC (p < 0.001). Human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) positivity was significantly associated with increased odds of re-excision (p = 0.036). MarginProbe® demonstrated a sensitivity of 70.1% and a specificity of 47.5%. MarginProbe® is an effective adjunct for intraoperative margin assessment to decrease re-excision rates. However, patient selection is paramount. Given its significant increase in shave volume, women with small breasts may be at higher risk for poor cosmesis. Surgeons should exercise clinical judgement when determining the suitability of MarginProbe® use for patients undergoing breast conservation. Further research is necessary to refine MarginProbe®'s specificity and to optimize its clinical application.

Malignant Phyllodes Tumour with Heterologous Osteosarcomatous differentiation and Osteoclast-like giant cells: Case Report of an uncommon neoplasm

Background: Phyllodes tumour (PT), an uncommon fibroepithelial neoplasm accounts for less than 1% of all primary tumours of the breast. MPT with osseous differentiation often gets misdiagnosed on imaging as benign giant calcifications resulting in treatment delay. We describe a rare case of MPT with heterologous osteosarcomatous differentiation and osteoclast-like giant cells and review the literature to discuss clinical-radiological findings, differential diagnosis and treatment options. Case Presentation: A 34-year-old female presented with a right breast lump. Mammography showed a high-density irregular mass with amorphous dense calcification, suggesting neoplastic aetiology. Preoperative core needle biopsy raised the possibility of a phyllodes tumour versus giant cell tumour. Wide local excision was performed to confirm the diagnosis which revealed the presence of a biphasic tumour with osteoid-like matrix and numerous osteoclastic giant cells. Immunohistochemistry was used to rule out metaplastic carcinoma or carcinosarcoma. The stromal cells were negative for panCK and P63 and positive for vimentin, CD10 and BCL-2. The osseous component was positive for Osteonectin and SATB2. Thus, a final diagnosis of malignant phyllodes tumour with heterologous osteosarcomatous differentiation and osteoclast-like giant cells was made. Conclusion: MPT with osteosarcomatous differentiation is a rare and challenging entity associated with a poor clinical outcome. Accurate diagnosis requires a multidisciplinary approach involving breast surgeons, pathologists and radiologists with careful histopathological examination. Wide local excision with close surveillance is crucial for timely detection of tumour recurrence and metastasis.

Assessment of Chemotherapy Knowledge and Practices Among Breast Surgeons in India: Identifying Gaps and Areas for Improvement

Assessment of Chemotherapy Knowledge and Practices Among Breast Surgeons in India: Identifying Gaps and Areas for Improvement

ASO Visual Abstract: Presentation and Management of Granulomatous Mastitis in the United States-Results of an American Society of Breast Surgeons Registry Study.

ASO Visual Abstract: Presentation and Management of Granulomatous Mastitis in the United States-Results of an American Society of Breast Surgeons Registry Study.

Evolving Economics: The Erosion of Medicare Reimbursement in Breast Surgery (2003–2023)

IntroductionMedicare significantly influences reimbursement rates, setting a standard that impacts private insurance policies. Despite declining rates in various specialties, the magnitude of these trends has not been examined in breast surgery. This study examines Medicare reimbursement trends for breast surgery operations.MethodsData for 10 breast operations from 2003 to 2023 were collected from the Medicare Physician Fee Look-Up Tool and yearly reimbursement was computed using the conversion factor. The year-to-year percentage change in reimbursement was calculated, and the overall median change was compared with the consumer price index (CPI) for inflation evaluation. All data were adjusted to 2023 United States dollars. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) was calculated using inflation-adjusted data.ResultsOver the study period, reimbursement for the 10 breast operations had a mean unadjusted percentage increase of + 25.17%, while the CPI increased by 69.15% (p < 0.001). However, after adjustment, overall reimbursement decreased by − 20.70%. Only two operations (lumpectomy and simple mastectomy) saw increased inflation-adjusted Medicare reimbursement (+ 0.37% and + 3.58%, respectively). The CAGR was − 1.54% overall but remained positive for the same two operations (+ 0.02% and + 0.18%, respectively). Based on these findings, breast surgeons were estimated to be reimbursed $107,605,444 less in 2023 than if rates had kept pace with inflation over the past decade.ConclusionInflation-adjusted Medicare reimbursement rates for breast surgeries have declined from 2003 to 2023. This downward trend may strain resources, potentially leading to compromises in care quality. Surgeons, administrators, and policymakers must take proactive measures to address these issues and ensure the ongoing accessibility and quality of breast surgery.

Contemporary Axillary Surgical Management in Patients with Pathologically Node Positive Disease After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Survey of Members of the American Society of Breast Surgeons.

Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) is increasingly omitted for breast cancer patients with pathologic nodal disease after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). This study aimed to understand when and why surgeons consider omitting ALND after NAC. The American Society of Breast Surgeons membership was surveyed, and responses were tabulated. To identify patterns, multiple correspondence analyses followed by cluster analysis on coordinates provided by the former were performed. Chi-squared analyses determined whether cluster characteristics were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with omission of ALND. Of members, 328/2172 (15.1%) completed the survey. Most (60.7%) always offer sentinel lymph node surgery to cN1 patients who respond to NAC, and many (43.9%) sometimes omit ALND in the setting of residual nodal disease. Respondents less often consider omitting ALND with increasing volume of pathologic nodal disease after NAC and are less likely to omit ALND among patients with cN1 disease at presentation than cN0 (P < 0.05 across all volumes). Respondents cited radiation administration (74.1%) and belief that ALND would not improve locoregional (48.2%), distant recurrence or survival (47.6%) outcomes when axillary radiation is administered as reasons to omit ALND. The respondent group comprising male private practice surgeons, practicing ≥ 21 years, consider omitting ALND significantly more frequently. Surgeons sometimes consider ALND omission for patients with pathologic nodal disease after NAC but are more likely to do so in cN0 patients and patients with smaller volumes of nodal disease. These decisions are largely based on perceived lack of oncologic benefit despite absence of prospective data supporting this deescalation.