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Is radiation ever given post mastectomy and while the expanders are in?

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Topics (Tags):

Tissue Expanders Breast Cancer Radiation Radiation Treatment Breast Radiation Treatment Mastectomy Post Mastectomy

Topics:

Tissue Expanders X Breast Cancer X Radiation X Radiation Treatment X Breast Radiation Treatment X Mastectomy X Post Mastectomy X

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Answers (1)

LeonardFarberMD (Physician - Oncology - Radiation (Verified) ) - 08 / 02 / 2011

Yes to both parts. While the criteria for post-mastectomy radiation is evolving, it is often offered for tumors greater than or equal to 5 cm, positive or close margins, skin involvement, and involved lymph nodes. Historically, 4 or more lymph nodes positive were the indication with regard to lymph node positivity, however, recent studies have shown a benefit to post-mastectomy radiation even in patients with 1 to 3 lymph nodes positive, especially in pre-menopausal women. Also, if patients received pre-mastectomy chemotherapy, depending on their initial disease, post-mastectomy radiation may be indicated.
We often deliver radiation with expanders in place, however, we require the expansion to be complete or not changed from the time the radiation is planned until after the treatment is completed.

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Latest Activity: 08 / 02 / 2011
Views: 319
Followed By: 1 members