PATIENT SATISFACTION WITH DECISION-MAKING FOR BREAST-CANCER THERAPY

Background: Many sources have suggested that mastectomy is inappropria tely performed too frequently for breast cancer, leading to excessive patient dissatisfaction and unnecessary mutilation. Hurried decision-m aking based on inadequate information has been proposed as an explanat ion. Methods: After confirming the diagnosis of breast cancer, patient s were informed of the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options acc ording to a standard protocol. The protocol was similar to that used b y many surgeons in similar circumstances. Six months after completion of either mastectomy or breast conservation therapy, patients were sur veyed about their satisfaction with the decision-making process and ch oice of treatment. Results: The majority of patients, whether they had undergone mastectomy or breast conservation, thought they had been ad equately informed of treatment options and that they had made the appr opriate choice of therapy. A significant percentage of mastectomy pati ents found that procedure more disfiguring than anticipated, but still thought they had made the appropriate choice of therapy. Despite havi ng been informed to the contrary, most patients said their chosen trea tment provided the best chance for cure. Conclusions: When informed of the diagnosis and treatment options in an unhurried, supportive setti ng, and when encouraged to seek further consultations as desired, brea st cancer patients make appropriate therapeutic choices about mastecto my or breast conservation therapy.