New techniques speed treatment of breast cancer
By Marcy Horwitz CONTRIBUTING WRITER

When a woman has found a lump in her breast, she wants to see a doctor as soon as possible. She needs information, answers and options - fast.

Thankfully, new treatments and approaches mean that women can get the attention they need as soon as they need it.

One such new technique is the two-step treatment. The two-step treatment starts with a biopsy. As a result of new surgical techniques, biopsies can often be done on an outpatient basis, under local anesthetic, perhaps even in the doctor's office or mammography suite. In-office biopsies are preferred. They're easier on women than procedures that require a hospital stay.

If the lump is indeed cancerous - and not all tumors are - the second step of treatment begins with a discussion between patient and surgeon. As soon as scheduling permits, surgery and any follow-up treatments begin.

Other new innovations mean that women with breast cancer experience less trauma and require less-if any-hospitalization.

At the Virginia Breast Center, James Pellicane, M.D. and Polly Stephens, M.D. are testing and developing a new process that allows them to remove small lumps in their office. After they make a button-hole sized incision in the breast, they remove the affected tissue. Women can return home the same day.

Another hospital-shortening technique involves mapping the lymph system. As a result, doctors can remove only the affected nodes, rather than all lymph nodes. The patient's experience is less upsetting and physically debilitating.

In the past, treatment for breast cancer was one-size-fits-all. Every woman underwent chemotherapy and radiation. Today, new techniques like oncotyping allow doctors to determine whether chemotherapy will be necessary or even useful. As a result, some women won't have to undergo the rigors of chemo.

Genetic testing is an increasingly important tool in treating patients with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. "We can test the whole family," says Deborah Jones, administrator of the Virginia Breast Center.

That includes men as well. According to the American Cancer Society, less than one percent of breast cancer sufferers are men, but men should be aware of risk factors such as family history of breast cancer.

Genetic testing can help identify those at greatest risk for breast cancer, enabling physicians to monitor patients more closely and increasing the chances of early diagnosis.

New techniques like these are effective tools against breast cancer, resulting in reduced stress. And that means fewer sleepless nights for women with breast cancer, and for the family members and friends who love them.