Latest Advancements in Breast Cancer Surgery and Treatments in Delhi

 Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women worldwide. In India, particularly in metropolitan cities like Delhi, there has been a significant focus on enhancing breast cancer treatments and surgical interventions. This article delves into the latest advancements in breast cancer surgery and treatments available in Delhi, highlighting the city's leading medical institutions, including Action Cancer Hospital.

Understanding Breast Cancer: A Brief Overview

Breast cancer originates from the breast tissue, primarily from the inner lining of milk ducts or the lobules that supply these ducts with milk. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates and quality of life.

Advancements in Breast Cancer Surgery

1. Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy): This procedure involves removing the cancerous tumor while preserving the majority of the breast tissue. Advances in surgical techniques have minimized scarring and improved cosmetic outcomes.

2. Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: Instead of removing multiple lymph nodes, surgeons now identify and remove only the sentinel lymph node—the first node to which cancer cells are likely to spread. This reduces complications like lymphedema.

3. Oncoplastic Surgery: Combining oncologic and plastic surgery principles, oncoplastic surgery ensures tumor removal while maintaining or enhancing breast appearance. This approach addresses both medical and aesthetic concerns.

4. Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: For select patients, surgeons can remove breast tissue while preserving the nipple and areola, leading to more natural-looking reconstruction results.

Innovations in Breast Cancer Treatments

1. Targeted Therapy: Medications like trastuzumab (Herceptin) target specific proteins (e.g., HER2) on cancer cells, leading to more effective treatments with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.

2. Immunotherapy: This approach harnesses the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Drugs like pembrolizumab have shown promise in treating certain types of breast cancer.

3. Hormone Therapy: For hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, treatments that block hormones or lower their levels can be effective. Advances have led to more precise hormone therapies with improved outcomes.

4. Personalized Medicine: Genetic profiling of tumors allows for treatments tailored to individual patients, enhancing effectiveness and reducing unnecessary side effects.

5. Advanced Radiation Techniques: Techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) deliver precise radiation doses, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

Leading Breast Cancer Hospitals in Delhi

Delhi boasts several esteemed institutions specializing in breast cancer care:

1. Action Cancer Hospital: Established by the Manav Sevarth Trust, Action Cancer Hospital is known for its comprehensive cancer care services, including advanced breast cancer treatments and surgeries.

Conclusion

Delhi has made significant strides in breast cancer surgery and treatments, offering patients access to cutting-edge medical care. Institutions like Action Cancer Hospital and others are at the forefront, ensuring that patients receive the best possible outcomes. Continuous advancements in medical technology and personalized treatment approaches promise a brighter future for breast cancer patients in the region.