UK survey of partial mastectomy and reconstruction

SummaryBackgroundPartial mastectomy and reconstruction can extend the role of breast-conserving surgery, but the frequency of this type of surgery is unknown.Materials and methodsA UK survey was performed to determine the frequency, indications, techniques and outcomes of partial mastectomy and reconstruction.ResultsSeventy-one of 180 (39%) respondents offered partial mastectomy and reconstruction. Reasons for not offering partial mastectomy and reconstruction included lack of experience (61%), uncertain indications (33%), uncertain benefits (45%) and concerns about oncological safety (22%). Immediate reconstruction was performed by 50% of respondents and perioperative margin analysis was uncommon. Respondents performed volume displacement or volume replacement or both approaches (23%, 18% and 59%). Complications included fat necrosis (68%), haematoma formation (55%), positive margins (46%), infection (41%) and flap loss or poor cosmetic outcome (10%).ConclusionsPartial mastectomy and reconstruction is becoming popular in the UK as an alternative to full mastectomy. Safe introduction of this approach in clinical practice will require a clearer understanding of technique selection, safety and clinical outcomes.