RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Breast reconstruction
JF Canadian Family Physician
JO Can Fam Physician
FD The College of Family Physicians of Canada
SP 424
OP 432
VO 64
IS 6
A1 Ron B. Somogyi
A1 Natalia Ziolkowski
A1 Fahima Osman
A1 Alexandra Ginty
A1 Mitchell Brown
YR 2018
UL http://www.cfp.ca/content/64/6/424.abstract
AB Objective To offer primary care providers a comprehensive summary of breast reconstruction options and complications.Quality of evidence A literature search was conducted in PubMed with no time restriction using the search terms breast reconstruction, summary, review, complications, and options. Levels of evidence range from I to III.Main message As breast cancer survival rates increase, the focus of breast cancer management must shift to include the restoration of a patient’s quality of life after cancer. Breast reconstruction plays a crucial role in the restoration of normality for these women. Women who undergo mastectomy often suffer from challenges related to body image, self-esteem, and a decrease in quality of life scores. Cancer Care Ontario’s Breast Cancer Treatment Pathway Map mandates that all women diagnosed with breast cancer who might require mastectomy be referred to a plastic surgeon to discuss reconstructive options before surgery.Conclusion The knowledge and guidance of primary care providers is critical to effectively guiding and supporting patients who might undergo breast reconstruction in their decision-making processes. A thorough understanding of patient selection factors, modern options for breast reconstruction, and expected outcomes is essential.