Cosmesis Outcomes for Sector Resection for Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

Background. Oncoplastic surgery allows wide excision of pathology with greater margins in breast-conserving surgery (BCS) without compromising the shape of the breast. Oncoplastic techniques were used to remove a sector of tissue to fully excise ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) with a large margin, with relocation of the breast tissue to maintain normal shape. We assessed patient satisfaction with breast cosmesis after surgery as well as patients' psychosocial well-being. Methods. A retrospective study was conducted of patients who underwent BCS alone for pure DCIS between 1995 and 2009, performed by two surgeons. The BREAST-Q questionnaire was modified for partial mastectomy to gain patients' perspectives on cosmetic outcomes and satisfaction after surgery. The questionnaire also assessed the emotional and sexual well-being of the patients. Results. Overall, there was a high level of patient satisfaction, with 52 of 55 women (94 %) satisfied or very satisfied with their cosmetic outcome after partial mastectomy. Conclusions. Oncoplastic techniques used for partial mastectomies to provide greater oncological clearance resulted in a high level of patient satisfaction after surgery.