Which radiation to do - APBI vs WBI?

MPBrit

I had a lumpectomy one week ago tomorrow. I am receiving conflicting opinions from doctors on what radiation therapy is best for me. I am told by my radiation oncologist that I would do very well with the APBI (the accelerated partial breast irradiation) because of my early stage cancer, no lymph node infection, however, because there are no long term (more than 10 year medical trials) for this therapy, and as I am in my early 50s, there is a possible risk of recurrence. The alternative is the well tested and proved wide beam radiation. I worry about the consequences of that from skin defects to potentially getting cancer in the lungs etc. So I would love to hear from other women who have similar diagnoses and surgery and what radiation treatment they chose. This is the first time I've done this, so thank you!

gypsyjo

Hi MP - I chose an alternative radiation therapy, IORT, that was done during surgery. There are no long term (10+) for it either for the US, though it is very common in other countries for early stage cancer and no lymph node infection. For my cancer, there is a 2% chance of reoccurrence with traditional radiation and a 3% for the IORT. I am willing to take that small additional risk to avoid having the additional amount of radiation and impact to healthy tissue that would be done with the wide beam therapy with other potential side effects. The time one time treatment vs the traditional was not even a factor for me. The radiation I avoid is a measureable advantage vs the small additional chance of my cancer returning. I know its an individual choice and yours may very well be different than mine.

Anonymous

Hi MPBrit, my diagnosis was similar to yours and I struggled with the decision about whether to do traditional vs. alternative radiation therapy. I ultimately decided on APBI. The deciding factor for me was the ability to spare healthy tissue from unnecessary radiation. All went well and I'm happy with the decision I made, but I don't think there was a "wrong" decision either way. I believe it's what you are personally most comfortable with. Best wishes to you in your decision making and treatment.

Kaneli

Hi Kiki13,

I am scheduled for my lumpectomy Tues Mar 22 and will start APBI that following Monday, Mar 28....That will be 2x a day for 5 days. I think they plan on using the Contura multi catheter lumens (Or whatever it's called!) I wonder how it went for you. I'd welcome any info, tips, suggestions you could offer. Thanks!