mastectomy
Pronunciation: mas-TEK-tuh-mee
Surgical removal of all or part of the breast tissue, typically performed as treatment for breast cancer.
Full Definition
Mastectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of breast tissue as treatment for breast cancer or risk reduction. Types include simple mastectomy (removal of breast tissue and nipple), modified radical mastectomy (includes lymph node removal), and skin-sparing or nipple-sparing procedures for immediate reconstruction. The choice of mastectomy type depends on tumor characteristics, patient anatomy, and reconstruction plans. Mastectomy may be recommended when breast-conserving surgery is not feasible or when multiple areas of cancer are present.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type of mastectomy (simple, modified radical, etc.) when clinically relevant.
In Context
- "The patient underwent modified radical mastectomy with immediate tissue expander placement." — Surgical report
- "Skin-sparing mastectomy was performed to optimize cosmetic outcomes for reconstruction." — Operative note