Breast cancer treatment options

Improved outcomes with individualized treatment options
Advancements in technology, coupled with innovative treatment options such as hormonal therapy, chemotherapy and radiation have emerged to give women a wide variety of treatment options that are far more effective than treatment in the past. You and your physician should decide what treatment is right for you.

Lumpectomy
Removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue.

Modified Mastectomy
Removal of breast tissue.

Bilateral Mastectomy with Reconstructive Surgery
Many women particularly under the age of 50 are now choosing to have bilateral mastectomy with reconstructive surgery to reduce their risk of reoccurrence.

Hormonal Treatment
Oral medication given to block estrogen and growth of cancer cells.

Chemotherapy
An injection of carefully controlled doses of chemicals designed to reduce the risk of recurrence after surgery. Both standard and clinical trials are available based on patient history.

Radiation Therapy
Used in combination with limited surgery, radiation therapy serves as an alternative to a mastectomy or after a mastectomy to prevent the cancer from spreading through the lymph nodes.

To learn more about Saint Thomas Health and the various treatments available for breast cancer, please call: (615) 284-5239 and ask for a nurse navigator.