Retrospective Analysis: Preserving More Subcutaneous Tissue Shows no Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence

Radical mastectomy remains the cornerstone procedure for the treatment of breast cancer (BC). However, traditional radical surgeries often lead to complications such as local numbness, pulling sensations, and atrophy of the pectoralis major muscle. In contrast, BC radical surgeries that preserve more tissue have shown potential in reducing these complications. This retrospective study aims to analyze case data from our institution, focusing on the methods of surgeries that preserve more tissue and evaluating the safety and reliability of the follow-up results.

A retrospective observational study was conducted on cases diagnosed with BC between May 2018 and July 2019 at our institution. The cases were divided into three different surgical groups and followed up for a period of 5 years. The follow-up results were then discussed within each group.

A total of 315 cases diagnosed with BC underwent regular follow-ups. The statistical analysis revealed an average age of 45 years and an average tumor size slightly over 2.2 cm, with early-stage BC (Stage I and II) accounting for 90.2% of the cases. The overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival times in the group undergoing total mastectomy with tissue preservation were comparable to those in the traditional radical mastectomy group and the breast-conserving plus radiotherapy group. Moreover, the complication rate, particularly the incidence of chest wall numbness and pulling sensations, was lower in the total mastectomy with tissue preservation group compared to the traditional radical mastectomy group. The overall average follow-up time was 64.4 months, with a recurrence and metastasis rate of 15.6% and an OS rate of 92.7%.

Based on our follow-up results, total mastectomy with more tissue preservation demonstrates comparable efficacy to breast-conserving surgery and traditional radical mastectomy. It can reduce some complications associated with traditional radical mastectomy and is beneficial for subsequent immediate and delayed breast reconstruction. This approach may be suitable for most patients with early to mid-stage breast cancer who do not wish to undergo breast-conserving surgery.