mastektomi

Mastektomi, or mastectomy, is the surgical removal of all or part of a breast tissue. It is commonly performed to treat breast cancer and, in some cases, to reduce cancer risk in individuals with a high genetic predisposition. Procedures range from simple (total) mastectomy to modified radical mastectomy, which removes breast tissue plus axillary lymph nodes. Advances have introduced nipple-sparing and skin-sparing techniques when oncologic risk allows, and these may preserve the nipple-areola complex or much of the breast skin.

Indications include treatment of invasive breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), as well as risk-reducing surgery for people with high genetic risk (for example, BRCA mutations). Preoperative assessment often includes evaluation of nodal status; a sentinel lymph node biopsy is commonly performed. If cancer is detected in nodes, a more extensive axillary dissection may be considered.

Reconstruction is frequently discussed and can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy or postponed. Options include implant-based reconstruction or autologous tissue procedures such as DIEP or TRAM flap reconstructions. The choice depends on cancer characteristics, body habitus, and patient preference.

Recovery varies but generally includes a hospital stay of a day or two and several weeks of limited activity. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, pain, numbness, lymphedema (in cases with lymph node removal), seroma, and complications related to reconstruction.