Lumpectomy for Breast Cancer
A lumpectomy, or a wide local excision, is also referred to as breast-conserving surgery. The surgeon removes the cancerous area and a surrounding margin of normal tissue. A second incision may be made in order to remove the lymph nodes. This treatment aims to maintain a normal breast appearance when the surgery is over.
After the lumpectomy, a five- to eight-week course of radiation therapy is often used to treat the remaining breast tissue. The majority of women who have small, early-stage breast cancers are excellent candidates for this treatment approach.
Side Effects From Breast Cancer Chemotherapy and Radiation
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can destroy constantly dividing breast cancer cells. But these treatments can also affect healthy cells. Medications and other self-help methods can ease many of these side effects: Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting Weakness and fatigue Mouth soreness Hair loss Weight gain Premature menopause Lowered resistance to infections
Read the Side Effects From Breast Cancer Chemotherapy and Radiation article > >
Women who are not usually eligible for a lumpectomy include those who have already had radiation therapy to the affected breast, have two or more areas of cancer in the same breast that are too far apart to be removed through one incision, or have cancer that was not completely removed during the lumpectomy surgery.
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by
Arnold Wax, MD on May 17, 2012
© 2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
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