TRANSAXILLARY ENDOSCOPIC PARTIAL MASTECTOMY FOR COMPARATIVELY EARLY-STAGE BREAST-CANCER - AN EARLY EXPERIENCE

For optimal cosmetic results in breast cancer surgery, we developed an alternative operation using endoscopy to remove tumors through a smal l single incision remote from the breast itself. The tumor is endoscop ically resected with electrocautery and low constant suction through a short incision in the axilla, 5 cm long, after which axillary dissect ion is performed through the same wound in the usual manner, under vis ualization by the naked eye. Primary reconstruction of the breast is p erformed with the remaining mammary gland and a subcutaneous fat flap on the serratus muscle. Seven patients underwent this surgery. The pos toperative shape of the breasts was judged to be cosmetically satisfac tory, and the surgical wounds were not visible from the front in all c ases. This operation has the same therapeutic oncological effect as a standard lumpectomy and, in addition, offers a greater cosmetic advant age in cases of early breast cancer.