Partial Mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a portion of the breast tissue affected by cancer. The spelling of this word is quite straightforward. 'Partial' is pronounced as /ˈpɑː.ʃəl/ which means 'incomplete or not whole'. 'Mastectomy' is pronounced as /mæsˈtek.tə.mi/ which refers to the surgical removal of breast tissue. Combining these two words makes 'Partial Mastectomy' pronounced as /pɑː.ʃəl mæsˈtek.tə.mi/. It is important to use the correct spelling in medical documents to prevent any miscommunication between healthcare providers.
Partial Mastectomy, also known as lumpectomy or breast-conserving surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to remove a portion of the breast tissue, including the tumor or the area affected by cancer while conserving the rest of the breast. It is a commonly used treatment option for breast cancer patients, especially in the early stages.
During a partial mastectomy, the surgeon removes the tumor along with a surrounding margin of healthy tissue to ensure the complete extraction of cancer cells. The size and location of the tumor can vary, but the goal of the procedure is to preserve as much of the breast shape and appearance as possible.
Partial mastectomy is usually combined with a sentinel lymph node biopsy or an axillary lymph node dissection to assess the involvement of nearby lymph nodes. This diagnostic step helps determine the stage and extent of cancer spread, allowing for more accurate treatment planning.
Following a partial mastectomy, the patient may undergo radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. Additional treatments like hormone therapy or chemotherapy may also be recommended based on the unique characteristics of the tumor.
Compared to a full mastectomy, partial mastectomy offers several advantages, including better preservation of the breast, shorter recovery time, and improved cosmetic results. However, it is important for patients to discuss with their healthcare team to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on their individual circumstances and preferences.
The word "partial" in "partial mastectomy" comes from the Latin word "partialis", which means "part" or "partial". "Mastectomy" is derived from the Greek word "mastos", meaning "breast", and the Greek word "ektomḗ", meaning "excision" or "removal". So, the term "partial mastectomy" refers to the surgical procedure where a part of the breast is removed.