Changes in Breast Surgery Practices Over a Decade
Author Information
Author(s): Guth Amber A., Shanker Beth Ann, Roses Daniel F., Axelrod Deborah, Singh Baljit, Toth Hildegard, Shapiro Richard L., Hiotis Karen, Diflo Thomas, Cangiarella Joan F.
Primary Institution: NYU School of Medicine, Clinical Cancer Center
Hypothesis
How have changes in breast cancer screening and imaging techniques influenced the clinical practice of breast surgery?
Conclusion
The management of breast disease has shifted towards earlier detection and surgical management of pre-invasive and early-stage cancers.
Supporting Evidence
- The rate of mastectomy decreased from 36.8% in 1995 to 14.5% in 2005.
- The percentage of preoperatively diagnosed cancers increased from 32.4% in 1995 to 39.8% in 2005.
- The rate of axillary lymph node dissection dropped from 18.3% to 13.7%.
Takeaway
Doctors are finding breast cancer earlier now, so they can do less surgery and help more people keep their breasts.
Methodology
The study analyzed breast surgeries performed in 1995 and 2005 using institutional pathology databases and Chi-square tests.
Limitations
The study only reflects one institution's experience and may not be generalizable.
Participant Demographics
Patients undergoing breast surgeries at NYU Clinical Cancer Center.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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