MASTECTOMY, PARTIAL

General Information

DEFINITION--Removal of a lump from the female breast that is known or suspected to be cancerous.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Breast.

REASONS FOR SURGERY--Cancer or suspected cancer of the breast. Surgeries to treat breast cancer are controversial and vary considerably. Consult with your doctor before deciding to undergo any surgery.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity; smoking; stress.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent or chronic illness.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--General surgeon or oncological surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; x-rays of chest; mammograms (See Glossary).
• During surgery: Laboratory examination of the removed lump by frozen section.
• After surgery: Blood studies; laboratory examination of removed tissue.

ANESTHESIA--General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• An incision is made over the lump to be removed.
• The lump and a small surrounding area of normal tissue are cut free and removed. Bleeding is controlled with ties and electrocauterization.
• The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Need for additional surgery (sometimes).

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--1 to 2 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing of the surgical wound. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• A hard ridge should form along the incision. As it heals, the ridge will recede gradually.
• Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve incisional pain.
• Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 4 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 1 week after returning home.

DIET--Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract functions again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You experience nausea or vomiting.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.