The full form of BCS in the context of breast health refers to Breast-Conserving Surgery.
Understanding Breast-Conserving Surgery (BCS)
Breast-Conserving Surgery (BCS) is a surgical procedure used as a treatment option for breast cancer. The primary goal of BCS is to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving as much of the natural breast tissue as possible.
Other Names for BCS
BCS is also commonly referred to as:
- Lumpectomy: Often used when a smaller portion of the breast tissue is removed.
- Partial Mastectomy: Used when a more significant portion of breast tissue is removed compared to a lumpectomy, but still less than a full mastectomy.
What Happens During BCS?
During the procedure, the surgeon removes the tumor along with a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue (called a margin) to ensure that all cancer cells are removed. The amount of tissue removed depends on the size and location of the tumor.
Importance of Follow-up Treatment
After BCS, radiation therapy is typically recommended to destroy any remaining cancer cells in the breast. This combination of surgery and radiation therapy aims to provide a similar survival rate compared to mastectomy for many women with early-stage breast cancer, while also preserving the breast.
