A Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Surgery With Robot-Assisted Technology.

Background

A few months ago, we diagnosed a 37-year-old woman with an aggressive form of breast cancer, medically categorized as Triple Negative Cancer. The cancer was located in the upper outer part of her breast and had spread to one lymph node in her armpit

Investigation & Analysis

Upon careful examination and subsequent investigative tests, it was found that the cancer was in its early stages. She began Neo Adjuvant Systemic treatment, which included chemotherapy, immunotherapy, high doses of IV vitamin C, and natural supplements. For Triple Negative breast cancer, systemic therapy is given before surgery to evaluate the treatment response

Patients who respond well usually have a better prognosis. Performing surgery first would prevent this assessment. Fortunately, she responded very well to the treatment, with scans showing no significant cancer activity in her breast and armpit.

Treatment & Management

Dr Mandeep S. Malhotra and his team at the CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon, performed a robot-assisted functional breast preservation surgery in the following steps to eliminate the cancer tissue completely:

• A circumareolar incision was made, preserving both the nipple and skin
• Robotic arms helped remove the previously involved tissue in the upper outer part of the breast
• Using the precision of robotic arms, the breast was reshaped into its original form by mobilizing the tissue from within the breast
• Sentinel lymph node evaluation was done for the axillary lymph node. Fortunately, the patient had a very good response
• The majority of the previously cancerous tissue suggested no active cancer on final histopathology

Post Operative Care

We supported the patient with subsequent dressing and precautionary measures to consider post-surgery, helping her resume her quality of life with a speedy recovery. At this point in her life, the patient feels incredibly relieved. She started with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, but now she is cancer-free and classified.

Her breast looks similar to how it did before. She is looking forward to enjoying a happy family life with her child and partner. With the dexterity and precision provided by robotic systems, it is easy to operate on delicate areas with complete ease