For example, we are testing a new type of therapy in newly diagnosed patients to reduce later risk of recurrence. This therapy involves giving patients chemotherapy and Herceptin prior to surgery. For patients where cancer has spread to bones, lungs, or liver, we offer unique combinations of chemotherapy with new hormones and therapeutic agents. Our surgeons strive for breast conservation whenever feasible and collaborate with the program's radiologists in stereotactic removal of small tumors. When mastectomy is required or desired, close collaboration with the plastic surgery team results in excellent cosmetic results.
Radiation therapy has many applications in the treatment of breast cancer.
Well-established data shows that radiation helps prevent local recurrence of breast cancer. UNC has long been a leader in developing techniques to ensure complete treatment of the breast while sparing normal tissues. 3-dimensional treatment planning allows us to use intensity modulation and electrons where applicable, improving dose delivery and sparing healthy tissue. In addition to our continuing efforts to improve delivery of radiation therapy through better targeting and dose modulation, we are involved in research aimed at combining radiation therapy with radiation sensitizers, which may enhance the ability of radiation to kill tumor cells while sparing normal cells. In our laboratories, we are also exploring mechanisms of radiation resistance in tumor cells and ways to overcome this resistance, with the hope of designing new treatments to offer patients.