[The surgical management of breast cancer, especially breast conserving treatment]

The management of breast cancer is highly controversial. Various operations have been performed at different hospitals. Herein, we reviewed the results of randomized clinical trials regarding breast conserving treatment, and axillary and internal mammary lymph node dissections. Variations in local-regional therapy may not substantially affect survival, but the incidence of local-regional failure is inversely related to the extent of operation and/or radiotherapy. At present, surgeons are highly recommended to perform adequate surgery which provides the ultimate local control, does not compromise the chance for cure and gives the best cosmetic and aesthetic results. Therefore, quadrantectomy with or without immediate reconstruction, axillary dissection and internal mammary biopsy and breast irradiation are more preferably recommended for ensuring local control and for providing a better cosmetic and psychological impact.