A lumpectomy procedure is a breast-conserving surgery used to remove cancerous tumors while preserving most of the breast. It’s often followed by radiation therapy to prevent recurrence. In this blog, we explain what the lumpectomy procedure involves, when it is recommended, and how innovations are enhancing surgical outcomes.
A lumpectomy procedure is a form of breast-conserving surgery. During the procedure, a surgeon removes the breast tumor along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. This approach is designed to maintain as much of the natural breast as possible. Lumpectomy is also known as a partial mastectomy or wide local excision. In recent years, lumpectomy combined with radiation therapy has become a commonly recommended initial treatment for many types of early-stage breast cancer. One of the key benefits is that it preserves the overall shape and appearance of the breast, making it a preferred option for eligible patients.
Not all breast cancer patients are suitable candidates for a lumpectomy. This surgery is typically an option for:
However, lumpectomy is not suitable for:
A thorough consultation with a breast surgeon and oncologist will determine the best surgical plan based on the individual’s medical profile.
Before the surgery, the exact location of the tumor is identified using a localization technique. This typically involves inserting a wire or a seed into the breast to guide the surgeon during the procedure. In some hospitals, magnetic seed technology is used for increased comfort and precision.
The lumpectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia, although local anesthesia with sedation can be an option in select cases. Once the patient is prepared, the surgeon carefully removes the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure the cancer is completely excised. To determine whether cancer has spread, a sentinel lymph node biopsy is often performed during the same surgery.
Special attention is given to placing the surgical incision in a way that minimizes visible scarring and preserves the cosmetic appearance of the breast. This is particularly important for patients who will undergo post-operative radiation therapy, which is typically part of the treatment plan.
A lumpectomy is generally an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can return home the same day. The surgery usually takes one to two hours. After the operation, the removed tissue is sent to a pathology lab for further analysis, with results typically available within a week. Most patients begin radiation therapy a few weeks after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells. In the short term, patients may experience soreness, numbness, or scarring around the surgical area. Long-term effects can include cosmetic changes to the breast or, in some cases, lymphedema if lymph nodes were removed during the procedure.
The Pintuition® Marker by Sirius Medical introduces a wire-free approach to tumor localization using magnetic seed technology. This innovation eliminates the discomfort and scheduling constraints associated with traditional wire-guided techniques. Instead, it provides real-time surgical guidance through the GPSDetect® software, allowing surgeons to precisely navigate to the tumor site with enhanced accuracy. This advancement not only improves the precision of lumpectomy procedures but also supports better cosmetic outcomes and patient comfort. As a result, both clinical efficiency and patient experience are significantly elevated.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. While Sirius Medical is dedicated to improving breast cancer treatment through innovative localization technology, we do not provide medical diagnoses or treatment recommendations. If you experience any symptoms or changes in your breast health, consult a qualified healthcare professional promptly. Early medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Always seek professional guidance for concerns regarding your health.