[Modified radical mastectomy--an analysis of 217 cases]

Modified radical mastectomy (MRM) was performed in two hundred and seventeen patients with operable breast cancer during 1972-1982. Having been followed for 5 to 10 years, the results were compared with those of radical mastectomy (RM) during the same period. There was no significant difference in 5 and 10 year survival rates between the two groups. MRM had the advantages of insignificant deformity, better function and easy breast reconstruction in comparison with RM. The authors believe that MRM should be recommended as the treatment of choice for breast cancer.