Aesthetic evaluation in oncoplastic and conservative breast surgery: a comparative analysis

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Radiation Oncology
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Achieving satisfactory cosmetic outcomes in breast-conserving surgery can be challenging.
• Oncoplastic techniques offer a potential solution for improving aesthetic results.
• Comparative analysis of oncoplastic techniques versus traditional breast surgery is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare oncologic and aesthetic outcomes of oncoplastic surgery with external radiation therapy or intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) versus breast-conserving surgery with external radiation therapy.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction with cosmetic results after different breast cancer treatment modalities.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 96 patients divided into three groups: oncoplastic surgery + radiotherapy (Group 1), oncoplastic surgery + IORT (Group 2), and conservative surgery + radiotherapy (Group 3).
• Patient-reported outcomes assessed cosmetic parameters including breast symmetry, scar appearance, nipple-areola complex symmetry, global aesthetics, and overall satisfaction.
• Statistical significance was determined using the chi-square test.

Main Results:

• While statistical significance was not reached between groups for oncologic and aesthetic outcomes, all patient groups reported satisfactory cosmetic results (scores >= 6).
• Patient satisfaction was high across all treatment modalities, indicating good aesthetic acceptance.
• No statistically significant differences in disease relapse or aesthetic outcomes were found among the groups.

Conclusions:

• Oncoplastic techniques combined with IORT represent a promising treatment option for early-stage breast cancer, offering excellent cosmetic results and high patient satisfaction.
• These findings support the consideration of oncoplastic surgery with IORT when inclusion criteria are met and equipment is available.
• The positive aesthetic outcomes encourage further adoption and research into these advanced breast cancer treatments.