Name of the Procedure:

AJCC Breast Cancer Stage I: T1c (tumor size > 1 cm to 2 cm) documented (ONC)

Summary

This procedure involves the documentation and assessment of breast cancer at Stage I, specifically when the tumor size is more than 1 cm but not exceeding 2 cm (classified as T1c). It includes determining the extent of the tumor and planning treatment.

Purpose

The procedure aims to accurately stage early breast cancer, guiding treatment decisions and improving prognosis. It helps in identifying the best therapeutic strategies to achieve a high rate of remission and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

Indications

• Presence of a palpable breast mass.
• Abnormal findings on breast imaging (e.g., mammogram, ultrasound).
• Positive biopsy confirming breast cancer.
• Patients with no signs of metastasis who display early localized tumors within the specified size range.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure imaging tests (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI) to measure the tumor size.
• Biopsy to confirm cancer type and grade.
• Possible blood tests to assess overall health and organ function.
• Patient education on the procedure, including potential outcomes and next steps.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment:

   • Clinical examination and palpation of the breast mass.
   • Review of imaging and biopsy results.

2. Staging Documentation:

   • Measure the tumor size using the imaging modalities.
   • Confirm the absence or presence of lymph node involvement and metastasis.

3. Treatment Planning:

   • Based on the tumor size and stage, develop a personalized treatment plan which may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy.

Duration

The entire staging documentation process, including imaging and biopsy reviews, typically takes a few hours spread over several appointments.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic with access to imaging and biopsy facilities.

Personnel

• Oncologists
• Radiologists
• Pathologists
• Breast surgeons
• Oncology nurses

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risk associated with imaging tests.
• Potential discomfort during biopsy.
• Very rare complications include infection or bleeding from biopsy sites.

Benefits

• Accurate staging helps in tailoring the most effective treatment plan.
• Early detection and staging of breast cancer significantly improve survival rates.
• Allows for more conservative surgical options when detected early.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery period as this is primarily an assessment and documentation process.
• Follow-up appointments to discuss treatment options and next steps based on staging.

Alternatives

• Watchful waiting for those not immediately opting for invasive interventions.
• Alternative imaging methods if MRI or other standard tools are not suitable.
• Seeking a second opinion for confirmation of the cancer stage and treatment options.

Patient Experience

• Mainly diagnostic with potential discomfort from imaging and biopsy.
• Anxiety related to cancer diagnosis which can be managed through counseling and support services.
• Minimal physical discomfort post-procedure; pain management as necessary for biopsy site.