It is useful in cases of a doubtful small lump within a breast. It is very useful in high risk group and as a follow-up procedure for the detection of spread of cancer to the contralateral breast. Mammography is, however, not available as a general facility in our country except to a small segment of urban population. The treatment of breast cancer is surgery which does not require elaborate and sophisticated equipment and facilities. Newer anti-cancer drugs and radiotherapy are helpful in the management of cancer more effectively but surgery remains the mainstay of treatment.
Early diagnosis is imperative for better management and results.
Early tumours can be treated by the removal of a segment of breast only. However, tumour detected at late stage require extirpation of the affected breast. The psychological trauma produced by the removal of the breast can be minimised by the reconstruction of breast. In the initial stages, artificial breasts can be used for aesthetic purposes. The bottom line in cancer of the breast is early diagnosis and treatment.