Evolution of Operative Technique for Mastectomy.

The radical mastectomy was the mainstay of breast cancer treatment through the majority of the twentieth century. However, as the understanding of breast cancer increased, the indications for more extensive surgical intervention decreased. The mastectomy has evolved so that skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy can be performed in the majority of women who undergo mastectomy currently. Today, nearly 40% of all women undergo mastectomy for breast cancer. The improved cosmetic appearance associated with skin- or nipple-sparing mastectomies does not compromise oncologic outcomes.