Influence of Resection Volume on Locoregional Recurrence of Breast Cancer after Breast-conserving Surgery

Background: The goals of breast-conserving surgery are to provide the survival equivalent of mastectomy, a cosmetically acceptable breast and a low rate of locoregional recurrence in the treated breast. This retrospective study investigated the impact of the resection volume on locoregional recurrence after breast-conserving therapy in patients with early-stage invasive breast cancer. Patients and Methods: Retrospective data from 185 women who were treated for operable breast tumours by breast-conserving surgery between 1995-1999 at the Martin-Luther-University in Halle/Germany were included in our study. Extent of total resection volume (TRV), tumour volume (V) and difference volume (DV) was compared for the influence on locoregional recurrence. Results: Our data showed no significant correlation between the risk of locoregional recurrence and the extent of resection volume. Predictors of an increased risk of locoregional recurrence after breast-conserving surgery were large primary tumour, grading, lymphatic vascular invasion, hormone receptor status and lack of radiotherapy or hormonal therapy. Conclusion: According to the accuracy of locoregional disease control and maintenance of the breast's shape, our results support conservative surgery in early-stage breast cancer followed by radiotherapy and adjuvant systemic therapy.