For many women diagnosed with Stage I/II breast cancer, the prospect of undergoing surgery can be daunting. However, advancements in breast cancer treatment offer options that allow patients to preserve their breasts while effectively eliminating cancer. At Phoenix CyberKnife, we specialize in breast-conserving therapy, offering state-of-the-art treatments that prioritize both efficacy and cosmetic outcomes.
Breast-Conserving Therapy
A Viable Alternative Breast-conserving therapy, which typically involves a lumpectomy followed by external radiation therapy, has emerged as a preferred option for many women seeking to preserve their breasts. In fact, a survey conducted by the National Cancer Institute revealed that 90 percent of women who underwent this treatment reported good to excellent cosmetic results. Additionally, 98 percent of respondents stated they would choose lumpectomy + radiation therapy over mastectomy if given the choice again.
Clinical Evidence and Studies
Prominent clinical studies have further supported the efficacy of breast-conserving therapy in treating Stage I/II breast cancer. Results from six major trials conducted worldwide showed that mastectomy offered no additional benefit over breast conservation treatment in terms of cure and local-regional cancer control.
Furthermore, data from the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NASBP) indicated that while 40 percent of patients may experience breast cancer recurrence within 10 years after lumpectomy alone, the recurrence rates after breast-conserving therapy were comparable to those after mastectomy.
Advanced Radiation Therapy Options
At Phoenix CyberKnife, we offer a range of advanced radiation therapy options for breast-conserving treatment, including:
- External beam radiation therapy, which involves daily treatments over several weeks.
- High-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy, a minimally invasive procedure that delivers radioactive seeds directly into the tumor.
- Hypofractionated radiation therapy, delivered via stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which targets tumors precisely with high doses of radiation over a shorter duration.
Advantages of SBRT
Studies comparing these methods have shown that hypofractionated radiation therapy via SBRT offers favorable outcomes compared to traditional external beam radiation and HDR implants. At Phoenix CyberKnife, our Radiation Oncologists of Central Arizona (ROCA) utilize the most advanced SBRT technologies, including the CyberKnife System and TrueBeam STx Radiotherapy System, ensuring precise and effective treatment delivery.
With breast-conserving therapy emerging as a preferred option for Stage I/II breast cancer treatment, Phoenix CyberKnife is proud to offer advanced radiation therapy options that prioritize both efficacy and cosmetic outcomes. Led by Dr. John Kresl, a pioneer in SBRT, our team of board-certified radiation oncologists is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care for breast cancer patients. Contact us today to learn more about our cutting-edge breast cancer treatment options and schedule a consultation.
