5 Differences Between Lumpectomy and Mastectomy
Breast cancer in women is rapidly increasing and becoming common all around the world. There are basically two treatments for this type of cancer. Depending upon the age, medical history, and the severity of the ailment, a doctor decides on the treatment. Lumpectomy and mastectomy are the two basic treatments for patients of breast cancer apart from Radiation therapy. Let us know the difference between the two types of treatments.
1. The basic difference
Lumpectomy is a surgery where only the lump or the tumor formed in the breast is removed along with some other tissues. In this case the entire breast is not affected. Mastectomy is a surgery where the entire breast is removed along with some other tissues of the chest.
2. Choice of surgery for women
If a woman is in the early stage of breast cancer, she can choose between lumpectomy and mastectomy. Many young patients choose lumpectomy with complete consultation of the concerned doctor.
3. Use of Radiation therapy
In lumpectomy, the patient will have to follow up with radiation therapy to see that the area from where the lump has been removed is completely cured and the malignant cells are not spreading. Generally in mastectomy, in the early stage of cancer, the patient may not need any radiation therapy as the entire breast has been removed. In either cases, radiation therapy is used when the cancer is found in the later stage.
