Quadrantectomy and video-assisted axillary dissection for stage I breast cancer

Quadrantectomy with axillary-node dissection is the treatment of choice for early-stage breast cancers. The minimally invasive approach to axillary dissection has the theoretical prerequisite to be oncologically corect, while ensuring a better cosmetic result and causing less psychological distress. A prospective, randomised study was carried out to assess the feasibility and the preliminary results of video-assisted axillary-node dissection. Quadrantectomy and video-assisted axillary-node dissection (study group = 10 patients) was compared with standard quadrantectomy and axillary-node dissection (control group = 12 patients operated on during the same period of time). The early outcomes were analysed, taking into account the following parameters: Patient's age, ASA group, staging, operating time, number of nodes harvested, postoperative pain, postoperative course (complications, lymphatic drainage, upper-limb mobility), hospital stay and cosmetic results at 6 months. Follow-up was 43-70 months in the study group and 43-64 months in the control group.