Breast conserving surgery (BCS) in northern Norway

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Cancer treatment outcomes can vary based on institutional and surgeon experience.
• Standardized treatment protocols are essential for consistent patient care.
• Understanding factors influencing disease recurrence is crucial for improving survival rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical outcomes of surgical oncology patients treated across multiple institutions.
• To identify prognostic factors for disease relapse and survival.
• To assess the impact of multicenter collaboration on patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 66 patients operated between 1986-1994 across 11 institutions.
• Data collection included patient demographics, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.
• Statistical analysis to determine correlations between clinical factors and outcomes.

Main Results:

• A 5-year disease-free survival of 51% and overall survival of 77% were observed.
• Positive lymph node status (pN(+)) at diagnosis was significantly correlated with relapse (p = 0.024).
• Single women experienced prolonged diagnostic delays (p = 0.025).
• No significant differences in outcomes were found between hospitals or surgeons.

Conclusions:

• Lymph node status is a critical predictor of relapse in surgical oncology.
• Multicenter studies and standardized treatment protocols enhance cure rates and minimize morbidity.
• Collaborative efforts in surgical oncology are vital for optimizing patient care and outcomes.