Evaluating the Use of Radiation Therapy after Mastectomy

Randomized studies from Canada and from Scandinavia have shown the benefit of radiation in addition to mastectomy for women. Breast cancer poses significant risks. This data is important because many women were previously felt to have adequate therapy with mastectomy for local treatment plus or minus chemotherapy depending upon the tumor extent. Radiation was seldom discussed after mastectomy. Yet, we now know that treatment after mastectomy should be discussed on a routine basis. Treatment options will seem more complex but a greater likelihood of cancer-free survival exists for those with breast cancer.