Lumpectomy vs. Tylectomy

Lumpectomy

Lumpectomy (sometimes known as a tylectomy) is a surgical removal of a discrete portion or “lump” of breast, usually in the treatment of malignant tumor or breast cancer. It is considered a viable breast conservation therapy, as the amount of tissue removed is limited compared to a full-breast mastectomy, and thus may have physical and emotional advantages over more disfiguring treatment. Sometimes a lumpectomy may be used to either confirm or rule out that cancer has actually been detected. A lumpectomy is usually recommended to patients who have detected their cancer early on and do not have enlarged tumors. Although a lumpectomy is used to allow for most of the breast to be left intact, it may result in adverse affects which can include sensitivity, resulting scar tissue, pain, and possible disfiguration of the breast if the lump taken out is significant. According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines, lumpectomy may be performed for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), for invasive ductal carcinoma, or for other conditions.