Conservative surgery and radiation in the treatment of early (stages I and II) breast cancer. Long-term results.

Multiple nonrandomized series as well as prospective randomized trials have demonstrated that the long-term results of conservative surgery and appropriate radiation are equal to those of mastectomy for the treatment of early breast cancer. Moderate doses of radiation combined with surgical excision result in optimal local-regional control, good to excellent cosmetic results in the majority of patients and minimal complications. The long-term potential carcinogenic effects of radiation have not materialized in the clinical setting and the incidence of contralateral breast cancer and second non-breast malignancy is comparable to that reported after mastectomy. Based on this data, conservative surgery and radiation continues to represent a valid alternative to mastectomy for the treatment of early breast cancer.