Causes and Management of Skin Necrosis After Breast Surgery: A Case Study
The causes and management of progressively expanding skin necrosis following breast surgery? A patient with stage II breast cancer [without lymph node involvement] underwent total mastectomy and the day after surgery, approximately 0.4 cm of hematoma was observed at both incision...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Dear Anthony, 1. One of the postoperative complications of total mastectomy is flap necrosis, which can occur due to excessive wound tension (often seen when the tumor is large, more skin is excised, or when the breast is smaller) or due to inadequate circulation from a flap tha...[Read More] Causes and Management of Skin Necrosis After Breast Surgery: A Case Study
Understanding Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Chemotherapy for breast cancer is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to target and kill cancer cells. It is often used in various stages of breast cancer, including early-stage and metastatic disease. The specific regimen may vary based on factors Dear Dr. Wu, My mother-in-law...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
1. Currently, the National Health Insurance does not cover MRI examinations of the breast for the assessment of axillary lymph nodes. 2. It is unclear whether surgical treatment has been received; if a surgical resection has been performed, it is important to know if a sentinel ...[Read More] Understanding Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Post-Mastectomy Pain and Side Effects: Understanding Your Concerns
Postoperative Issues After Breast Cancer Surgery Hello Doctor: My mother is currently 59 years old. Last June, a hard lump was discovered in her left breast, which was diagnosed as breast cancer with metastasis to the lymph nodes. She underwent surgery to remove both the tumor an...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Peggy, 1. During axillary lymph node dissection, there can sometimes be damage to the sensory nerves of the arm, which may result in pain in the left arm. This can be managed with neuropathic pain medications, and you may also consider consulting a rehabilitation specialist...[Read More] Post-Mastectomy Pain and Side Effects: Understanding Your Concerns
Understanding Underarm Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a sensation of tightness or discomfort in the armpit? Hello Dr. Wu: Recently, I've been feeling a tightness in my right armpit. My job requires me to raise my right arm frequently, and I'm not sure if it's due to overuse or some other reason. I feel someth...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Ms. Hsu, Hello, the sensation of "tightness under the right armpit" can have many causes, including excessive workload, axillary accessory breast tissue, or subcutaneous tumors such as lipomas, among others. You may consider consulting a general surgeon or a breas...[Read More] Understanding Underarm Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Breast Abnormalities: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Breast abnormalities Recently, my mother has been experiencing occasional slight bleeding from her nipple, and the frequency seems to be increasing. Sometimes there is mild pain or itching, and there appears to be slight swelling near the axillary region. Could you please tell me...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Amy: Blood-stained discharge is a condition that requires attention as it may indicate papilloma, injury, malignant tumor, or other issues. It is recommended to consult a general surgeon or a breast surgeon for further examination. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, D...[Read More] Understanding Breast Abnormalities: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Should You Get a Mammogram? Understanding Breast Pain and Testing Options
Are you undergoing a mammogram? Recently, I have been experiencing pain in my chest and underarm area. Due to long hours of standing and walking at work, I also experience lower abdominal pain during my menstrual and ovulation periods. What kind of examinations should I undergo?
Dr. Zhao Ming Reply:
1. Chest and axillary pain related to breast surgery should first undergo physical examination and ultrasound examination. 2. Lower abdominal pain during menstruation is related to gynecology and should be evaluated by an obstetrician-gynecologist.[Read More] Should You Get a Mammogram? Understanding Breast Pain and Testing Options
Understanding Early Stage Breast Cancer: Treatment Options and Concerns
Breast cancer My mother has stage I breast cancer with a 1.4 cm tumor. After the doctor removed it and confirmed the diagnosis, the surgeon initially only removed half of the tumor, but at my mother's request, the remaining part was also removed. Will this cause the cancer c...
Dr. Zhao Ming Reply:
1. Generally, this is a standard treatment approach and does not lead to the spread of breast cancer. 2. The survival rate for breast cancer primarily depends on the malignancy of the individual cancer cells rather than the treatment method (chemotherapy can improve survival ra...[Read More] Understanding Early Stage Breast Cancer: Treatment Options and Concerns
Understanding Breast Cancer Staging and Treatment Options: A Guide for Patients
Breast Hello Dr. Wu: My mother underwent surgery a few days ago to remove breast cancer, which was approximately 1.7 cm in size. Initially, we thought it was early-stage, but after the surgery, 20 lymph nodes were tested and all were positive (there is also suspicion of residual ...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your mother's breast cancer is likely classified as Stage II. Generally, the surgical removal of 20 axillary lymph nodes affected by cancer is sufficient, and no further surgery is necessary. Subsequent treatments may include radiation thera...[Read More] Understanding Breast Cancer Staging and Treatment Options: A Guide for Patients
Do Breast Cancer Symptoms Persist? Understanding Signs and Risks
Will the symptoms of breast cancer persist? Last year, I had an ultrasound examination that revealed a benign tumor, and the doctor advised regular check-ups every six months. I would like to ask if the doctor can determine whether a tumor is benign or malignant based solely on t...
Dr. Yang Jinfa Reply:
Hello! The accuracy of ultrasound diagnosis is approximately 85%, so it is recommended to follow up every six months. If the shape and size of a benign tumor remain unchanged, it can be confirmed as benign. Otherwise, fine needle aspiration or biopsy may be necessary. Nipple retr...[Read More] Do Breast Cancer Symptoms Persist? Understanding Signs and Risks
Understanding Breast and Axillary Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Occasional discomfort in the left axilla and left chest? Sometimes there is a lump under my left armpit that is a bit painful, but it can disappear at times and reappear at others. I also experience slight discomfort in my left breast, possibly related to my menstrual cycle. Asid...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
The lump in your left armpit may be what is referred to as "accessory breast tissue." The slight discomfort in your left breast is likely due to fibrocystic changes or neuralgia, both of which are generally not a cause for concern and can be monitored with regular follo...[Read More] Understanding Breast and Axillary Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice