Radiation options for early stage breast cancer

Abstract

Objective: To explore the current radiation therapy options for early stage breast cancer.

Data sources: Research literature and review articles.

Conclusion: With 20 years of clinical data supporting the efficacy of whole breast radiotherapy after lumpectomy for early stage breast cancer, the attention has shifted to an even more conservative approach, namely partial breast irradiation following lumpectomy. A number of large clinical trials in North America and Europe are currently enrolling patients for the evaluation of several different techniques, including interstitial brachytherapy, the Mammosite device, 3-dimensional conformal external radiation therapy, and intraoperative radiotherapy.

Implications for nursing practice: Radiation oncology nurses can significantly impact the coordination of services and the education of patients who enroll in these important clinical trials.