Moulding Breasts, Shaping Lives: Propagating Oncoplastic Surgery.

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Breast Cancer Management
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Breast cancer surgery has evolved from radical mastectomy to breast conservation.
• Oncoplastic surgery integrates oncological principles with plastic surgery techniques for improved outcomes.
• This evolution aims to balance cancer removal with aesthetic results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elaborate on the factors driving the evolution of oncoplastic surgery.
• To ascertain the breast conservation rate at a tertiary cancer center in Kerala, India.
• To audit the types of oncoplastic procedures performed.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of a prospective database from July 2017 to July 2023.
• Inclusion of all breast cancer surgeries (curative and palliative resections).
• Detailed audit of breast conservation surgeries and oncoplastic procedures.

Main Results:

• A total of 3036 breast surgeries were performed, with 2850 curative resections.
• Breast conservation rate was 69.5% (1980 breast conservation surgeries vs. 870 mastectomies).
• 1950 oncoplastic procedures were performed (1158 Level I, 593 Level II, 199 Level III), with 30 requiring volume replacement techniques.

Conclusions:

• Oncoplastic surgery has become a mainstay in breast cancer management.
• A concerted effort involving patient counseling, departmental training, and workshops popularized oncoplastic breast surgery.
• The strategies employed can guide other centers in adopting and popularizing oncoplastic breast surgery.