P3-12-04: Involved Anterior Margins after Breast Conserving Surgery: Is Re-Excision Required?

Background: Complete tumour excision in breast conserving surgery (BCS) is critical for successful treatment; involved circumferential resection margins are associated with increased disease recurrence. However, the importance of an involved anterior margin is less clear. The purpose of this study was to audit an aggressive approach to involved anterior margins and hence assess whether anterior margin re-excision yields clinical benefit. Material and Methods: A retrospective case note and pathology review was performed for all patients who underwent BCS between 2006 and 2010 through a single cancer centre. An involved margin was defined as Conclusions: Re-excision of involved anterior margins rarely excises residual disease and may be unnecessary. Multidisciplinary teams should consider whether further therapy for an involved anterior margin is required on a patient by patient basis. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2011;71(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-12-04.