Round block technique is a useful oncoplastic procedure for multicentric fibroadenomas

Multicentric fibroadenomas, defined as multiple fibroadenomas located at different quadrants of the breast, occur in 10-20% of women with fibroadenoma. The surgical management of multicentric fibroadenomas may be troublesome for surgeons and patients. In this study, we report our preliminary experience using the "round block technique" in the management of women with multicentric fibroadenomas of the breast.

Records of patients with breast diseases managed with the round block technique were searched for in the Changhua Christian Hospital oncoplastic breast surgery database. The patients' clinicopathologic characteristics, type of surgery, operation time, blood loss, and complications were recorded. The cosmetic outcome was evaluated by the patient and operating surgeon two months after the surgery.

Twenty patients with multicentric fibroadenomas managed by the round block technique comprised the current study cohort. The mean age of the subjects was 36.5 ± 10.4 years. Twelve (60%) patients had tumors on one side of the breast, and eight (40%) had bilateral breast lesions. The average number of tumors removed was 3.3 ± 1.2 (range 2-6) per breast, and mean tumor size was 2.2 ± 0.5 cm. Three (15%) patients developed mild ecchymosis of the breast undergoing operation, which resolved spontaneously. One (5%) patient had partial nipple ischemia/necrosis due to 2 tumors excised near the nipple-areolar complex. The aesthetic results were evaluated as good in 19 (95%) patients and fair in 1 (5%).

The round block technique is a useful oncoplastic procedure for the management of multicentric fibroadenomas excised at the same time.