Breast cancer is a serious health concern that affects many women worldwide. Fortunately, with early detection and proper treatment, the chances of survival are high. One of the most common treatment options for breast cancer is lumpectomy and radiation therapy. In this article, we will discuss the role of lumpectomy and radiation therapy in the treatment of breast cancer.
What is a Lumpectomy?
Lumpectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the tumor or a portion of the breast tissue affected by cancer. The goal of a lumpectomy is to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving the healthy breast tissue. Some other terms for lumpectomy are breast-conserving surgery, partial mastectomy, or wide local excision.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it. He/she further sends the removed tissue to a laboratory for analysis. The analysis would determine if the tumor is cancerous and the extent of cancer spread.
What is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy eradicates cancer cells from patient’s body using high-energy X-rays or some other form of radiation. Radiation therapy follows a lumpectomy procedure to kill any remaining cancer cells.
The two major types of radiation therapies that medical care experts often go for are internal radiation therapy and external beam radiation therapy. In internal radiation therapy, medical professionals place a radioactive source within the breast tissue near the tumor. In external beam radiation therapy, a machine delivers radiation from outside the body.
Role of Lumpectomy and Radiation Therapy in Breast Cancer Treatment
Lumpectomy and radiation therapy in Fort Smith Arkansas are often used together in the treatment of breast cancer. The goal of this combined treatment is to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving the breast’s appearance and function.
Lumpectomy followed by radiation therapy can be as effective as a mastectomy (complete removal of the breast). It is good for treating early-stage breast cancer. Lumpectomy and radiation therapy have also been shown to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in the breast.
In addition to reducing the risk of recurrence, lumpectomy and radiation therapy have several other benefits. These benefits include:
- Shorter Recovery Time – Lumpectomy is a less invasive procedure than mastectomy, and patients usually recover more quickly. Radiation therapy is also a non-invasive treatment that does not require hospitalization.
- Better Quality of Life – Lumpectomy and radiation therapy preserve the breast’s appearance and function, which can lead to a better quality of life for many women. However, radiation does cause the breast tissue to decrease over time. That problem is easily resolved with a prosthetic shaper to regain balance and symmetry.
- Lower Risk of Complications – Lumpectomy and radiation therapy have a lower risk of complications than mastectomy, such as infection or bleeding.
Possible Side Effects
Like any medical procedure, lumpectomy and radiation therapy can have side effects. The most common side effects of radiation therapy include fatigue, skin irritation, and breast swelling. But don’t worry, as these side effects often vanish after the breast cancer treatment.
Who is Eligible For Lumpectomy and Radiation Therapy?
Women with early-stage breast cancer are usually eligible for lumpectomy and radiation therapy, but there are certain criteria that need to be met.
The size and location of the tumor are crucial factors in determining eligibility for a lumpectomy and radiation therapy. The tumor size should be small enough to easily remove with clear margins. It means that no cancer cells must be left behind. The location of the tumor should also allow for the preservation of as much healthy breast tissue as possible.
Additionally, women undergoing lumpectomy and radiation therapy should have no evidence of cancer spreading to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. If cancer has spread beyond the breast, more extensive treatments may be necessary.
Also, consider other factors, such as age and overall health, when determining eligibility for this treatment. Women with certain medical conditions, such as connective tissue disorders or previous radiation therapy to the same breast, may not be eligible for lumpectomy and radiation therapy.
Get Help with Pink Ribbon Boutique, Inc
Pink Ribbon Boutique, Inc. has been a strong advocate for breast-conserving surgery like a lumpectomy, as it helps preserve the breast’s appearance and function, leading to a better quality of life for many women. Pink Ribbon Boutique also supports the use of radiation therapy after lumpectomy to destroy any remaining cancer cells in the breast.
In addition to raising awareness and promoting education about breast cancer, Pink Ribbon Boutique, Inc. also provides support and resources for those affected by breast cancer. The organization offers counseling, and other services to help breast cancer patients and survivors. You can consult their experts to find the right treatment for yourself. Plus, they offer the right breast cancer support accessories, like post-surgical bras, to aid faster recovery. Contact them for help today.
Final Thoughts
Lumpectomy and radiation therapy in Fort Smith Arkansas are effective treatment options. These treatment options are ideal for many women with early-stage breast cancer. These treatments can help remove cancerous tissue while preserving the breast’s appearance and function. But, please remember that your breast tissue could decrease over time. Hence, this can lead to a better quality of life for many women. If you or a loved one who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, speak with your doctor. Or consult with experts at Pink Ribbon Boutique, Inc. to help you with faster recovery after the treatment.