ABSTRACT

Breast conservation therapy (BCT) is a well-established treatment for early breast cancer and is preferred over mastectomy in terms of overall survival, disease-free survival, and cancer recurrence. BCT involves breast conservation surgery (BCS) followed by radiation therapy (RT) and adjuvant chemotherapy (CT) if indicated. This chapter discusses the components of BCT, contraindications to BCT, and the advantages of BCT. In addition, the different techniques for BCS and axillary nodal management are described. For patients with locally advanced breast cancers, BCT is also possible with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The chapter also discusses the recent relevance of accelerated partial breast irradiation and its criteria. Proper counseling for the available and suitable treatment options is essential to ensure the best possible option for the patient.