Reexcision?

igotthis123 · October 2017

I had a lumpectomy on Oct 11. The pathology report says "margins uninvolved by invasive carcinoma. Distance less than 1 mm to superior margin". I read the NCCN guidelines and they say as long as their is no ink on the tumor they are clear. My doctor says it's close, she asked the RO and he doesn't have a strong opinion, basically it's up to me. Anyone have a similar experience or thoughts?

Moderators · October 2017

Dear igotthis123,

Welcome to the community. We are sorry about your diagnosis but happy that you reached out to our members. While you are waiting for some responses you may want to take a look at this information on our main site about Pathology Reports. We hope that you will stay active here. Keep us posted on your decisions moving forward. The Mods

Wonderwoman386 · December 2017

igotthis-

I was diagnosed in July, had my surgery in September, like you my margins are close, not clear. I am facing the decision of reexcision as well.

My plastic surgeon, general surgeon, oncologist- all say there isn’t data to strongly suggest that reexcision is necessary.

Did you end up choosing more surgery? Why or why not

MamaFelice · December 2017

I had lumpectomy end of May, and I too had the 1mm margin on one side. I was going to leave it alone-- not shake things up any further in a way.... but knew I was considering BMX in future because of past radiation damage to both breasts. Surgeons wanted larger margin. MO allowed me to feel secure that it was fine.

Eventually, with much prayer, I came to the decision to move forward with the BMX in Sept-- again, mainly because of pre-existing situation. When path came back, the already removed tumor had no other signs of cancer cell left.... but, a hidden, undetected tumor was found over 1 cm away from the original. My breast is dense and apparently hid that sucker well. If you are worried about any tumor left (or hidden), maybe ask for a PET scan to determine if any disease still exists. Also-- if you are having chemo and/or rads, I would ask if those would take care of any concern. The margin would be more importantly to me if I was not doin go adjuvant therapy. Best wishes!

igotthis123 · December 2017

Thank you both for your reply. I spoke with my MO and RO and both said current research says any negative margin is all you need. They had no problem if I wanted to do a reexcision for peace of mind. The area that would be removed would be involving the nipple, so that was another consideration. I finally decided I had researched enough and should trust the guidelines and my team. I am currently half way through radiation so hopefully if a few cells were left behind, that will zap it! Best Wishes to you!

Reexcision?

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