[The value of postoperative irradiation in the curative management of breast cancer (author's transl)].

A report is presented of the value of post-operative irradiation in patients with operable breast cancer. A combination of conservative surgery followed by irradiation provides optimal loco-regional results. Improved 10-year survival rates have already been reported with adequate irradiation of the peripheral lymphatics. The location and size of the primary tumour, as well as exact quantitative statements about histologically positive axillary lymph nodes are parameters of utmost importance.