Breast surgical approach by axillary incision

Abstract

Objectives: To present the surgical technique, complications and results of breast surgery performed by axillary incision. Methods: This is a descriptive retrospective observational study of patients who were referred for breast surgery and signed informed consent. We discuss the indications of surgery, the inclusion or exclusion of patients, the surgical technique and the complications and follow-up. Results: From September 2008 to January 2010, there were 108 breast surgeries with axillary incision. The average age of patients was 43 years with range of 17 to 81 years. The most prevalent complications were the rippling. Follow-up ranged from 1 year and 4 months to 10 days. The immediate and late outcome over three months was satisfactory in the subjective evaluation of the patients and in the objective evaluation of the surgeon. Conclusion: The axillary incision showed to be an excellent surgical option to approach the breasts. The satisfaction of the patients, together with low complication and little technical difficulty, has encouraged us to adopt the axillary incision as preferred and choice in all possible approaches in breast cancer.