WP 2.19: Oncologic events after subcutaneous mastectomy with or without conservation of the nipple-areola complex

Breast cancer treatment has become increasingly more effective over the last decades with improved survival. This has led to an increased focus on aesthetic outcomes and quality of life, while maintaining oncological safety. Accordingly, there is a growing interest in the use of nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) and skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM) with immediate reconstruction as an alternative to traditional mastectomy and subsequent reconstruction of the breast (2). In SSM the skin envelope is preserved, but breast tissue and nipple areola complex (NAC) is removed. NSM removes breast tissue while retaining the entire skin envelope and NAC. Preserving the NAC in NSM leaves a small amount of breast tissue behind the nipple, potentially increasing the risk of local recurrence and raising doubts about its oncological safety, despite studies reporting improved aesthetics and quality of life. (2,4,5,6)
The aim of this study is to investigate the oncological safety of NSM compared to SSM, regarding cancer recurrence and survival, and to investigate the accuracy of nipple to lesion distance on mammography in surgery planning. The study is planned as a national register study based on data from the DBCG database and on original imaging files.
The results have the potential to be used in shared decision making when patients are guided in choosing the right type of mastectomy, enhance the quality of life, while preserving their body image and self-esteem.

Awarded to: Tove Filtenborg Tvedskov (Herlev-Gentofte Hospital) – CFA3

Awarded grant to support VIP personnel.