Radical Mastectomy for Breast Cancer
During a radical mastectomy, the surgeon removes all of the breast tissue along with the nipple, lymph nodes in the armpit, and chest wall muscles, under the breast. This procedure is rarely performed today, because modified radical mastectomy, a less extensive surgery, has proved to be equally as effective, less disfiguring, and does not carry the risk of secondary angiosarcoma associated with this type of surgery.
You should be asked to give blood before breast cancer surgery, in case a transfusion becomes necessary.
Breast Cancer Treatment With Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy refers to the use of anti-cancer drugs to kill breast cancer cells. The doctor who determines which drugs will be used, and in what dosage is known as an oncologist. Chemotherapy can be used for three major purposes: Adjuvant therapy: The goal is to prevent or postpone cancer from coming back after the initial surgery and radiation. Even when the cancer seems to be confined to the breast and lymph glands under the arm, there is a chance that cells may have already spread to...
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You should thoroughly discuss surgical options with the operating surgeon to achieve the best outcome. Whichever type of surgery is your best option, you will be able to return home after a short stay in the hospital.
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by
Arnold Wax, MD on May 17, 2012
© 2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
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