Lumpectomy Procedure

A lumpectomy, also known as a partial mastectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove a lump or tumor from the breast. The goal of the procedure is to eliminate the cancerous tissue while preserving as much of the breast tissue as possible.

Types of Lumpectomies

• Quadrantectomy: Removal of one-quarter of the breast tissue, including the tumor and some surrounding tissue.
• Sectoral resection: Removal of a larger section of the breast tissue, including the tumor and more surrounding tissue.
• Wide local excision: Removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue.

Reasons for Lumpectomy

A lumpectomy is typically performed to treat early-stage breast cancer, including:

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
• Stage I or II invasive breast cancer
• Small tumors that are localized and have not spread to other parts of the body

Procedure Details

The lumpectomy procedure typically involves:

• General anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation to numb the area
• A small incision in the breast, usually around the areola or in a natural fold of the skin
• Removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue, which may include some lymph nodes
• Closure of the incision with sutures or staples

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with a lumpectomy, including:

• Bleeding or hematoma
• Infection
• Numbness or tingling in the breast or arm
• Changes in breast shape or size
• Scarring

Recovery and Follow-up Care

After a lumpectomy, patients typically:

• Stay in the hospital for a few hours or overnight for observation
• Experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with medication
• Need to rest and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for several weeks
• Require follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor healing and remove sutures or staples
• May need additional treatments, such as radiation therapy, to ensure the cancer is fully treated

Outcomes and Prognosis

The success of a lumpectomy depends on various factors, including:

• Tumor size and type
• Stage of cancer at diagnosis
• Effectiveness of additional treatments, such as radiation therapy
• Overall health and medical history of the patient

Generally, a lumpectomy can be an effective treatment for early-stage breast cancer, with high success rates and good cosmetic outcomes.