The operation to remove breast tumors aims to remove the tumor, whether it is benign or malignant, provided that the tumor has not penetrated the tissue boundaries in a way that calls for a complete mastectomy.
Mastectomy is a relatively recent operation. Previously, the entire breast was removed in all cases in which a breast tumor was diagnosed, which left the patient with many difficult medical and psychological repercussions.
Risks of performing the operation
Having a mastectomy is associated with many risks, such as the following
Incision site infection.
bleeding.
Incision site scars.
A in blood pressure.
Some tissues die as a result of problems with their blood supply.
Fluid pooling in the arm.
Before the operation
The doctor directs the patient to perform some tests as needed, such as: blood tests, complete blood cell count, blood chemistry, coagulation tests, and chest x-rays, especially in the elderly, and an electrocardiogram is done.
A biopsy is taken from the breast to diagnose the type of tumor, and in some cases other tests are done, such as computerized tomography, positron emission tomography, mammography, or breast ultrasound.
You must consult your doctor about all medications that you must stop taking before the surgery, and you must abstain from drinking alcohol for 48 hours and fast for 8 hours before the operation.
during operation
Breast tumor removal is performed as follows
Sentinel node sampling To make sure that there are no hidden cancer cells in the lymphatic tract.
The chest area is completely sterilized, then the surgeon makes an incision in the lower border of the tumor.
The removal of the entire tumor from among the healthy breast tissue.
Excision and examination of some of the healthy breast tissue surrounding the tumor To make sure that it is free of cancer cells.
Suture the healthy breast tissue again after making sure that it is free of any tumors.
The operation to remove breast tumors takes one to two hours, and some tubes are left to drain fluid from the tissue.
After the operation
The patient must stay in the hospital under observation for 24 hours after the mastectomy to ensure that the condition is stable.
Pain relievers can be taken when needed, and the sick woman usually needs up to a week to recover, and it is preferable during this period to get enough rest.
The patient should go to the doctor immediately if some symptoms appear, such as: severe pain, high temperature, shortness of breath, purulent secretions, and heavy bleeding.
