The value of whole body bone scan in the pre-operative assessment in carcinoma of the breast.

In 126 patients with primary breast cancer a patient moving whole body bone scan was performed when they first presented. None of the patients in stage I had an evidence of skeletal metastases. Two patients (3%) of 62 in stage II and 4 patients (17%) in stage III had evidence of skeletal metastases. It appears that whole body scanning is the most accurate, sensitive and convenient method of detecting osseous metastases and of staging breast cancer. This investigation should be carried out pre-operatively. Detection of early asymptomatic bony metastases will provide a better planning of treatment with rational approach.