Evidence and Controversies in the Use of Post-Mastectomy Radiation

Authors:
Shaneli A. FernandoFrom the Departments of Radiation Medicine and Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, and the Department of Surgery, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York.

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Stephen B. EdgeFrom the Departments of Radiation Medicine and Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, and the Department of Surgery, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York.
From the Departments of Radiation Medicine and Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, and the Department of Surgery, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York.

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Volume/Issue:
Volume 5: Issue 3
Online Publication Date:
Mar 2007
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.6004/jnccn.2007.0028
Full access

Radiation after mastectomy is recommended for women with positive nodes, larger tumors, or positive margins. In addition to its role in reducing the risk for locoregional recurrence, it has an additive effect to the survival benefit seen with adjuvant systemic therapy. This article reviews the role of post-mastectomy radiation (PMRT) based on the recommendations in the 2007 NCCN Breast Cancer Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology and addresses the risk factors for recurrence after mastectomy. The data supporting both improvement in locoregional failure and survival are reviewed in detail. This article also discusses controversial areas in PMRT, including regional nodal radiation in women with 1 to 3 positive lymph nodes, PMRT in node-negative women with large tumors, and inclusion of internal mammary nodes. The final section discusses radiation field design and potential complications.

Correspondence: Shaneli A. Fernando, MD, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY 14263. E-mail: Shaneli.Fernando@roswellpark.org
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Copyright:
Copyright © 2007 by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network
Page Numbers:
8
Article Category:
Research Article
Received:
09 Oct 2006
Accepted:
24 Oct 2006
Print Publication Date:
01 Mar 2007
Online Publication Date:
Mar 2007
Keywords:
Breast cancer; post-mastectomy radiation; locoregional failure; chemotherapy; mastectomy; lymph node; NCCN Breast Cancer Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology
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