Also the more likely it will be possible to preserve the breast by a technique known as lumpectomy. Most patients with breast cancer also undergo removal of the lymph glands in the armpit region. This sometimes leads to problems such as arm swelling or weakness. EVMS is currently studying an innovative technique known as sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with breast cancer. This promising technique may make it possible to avoid the routine removal of all of the lymph glands in a patient's armpit, decreasing pain and complications.
Many patients unfortunately fail to regularly participate in breast cancer screening.
Patients may fail to seek medical attention even when they know something is wrong. They may not listen to their intuition, to their little voice inside. I have recently seen a number of patients with large breast cancers. They all thought that the lumps would go away. The lumps instead got bigger.