A comparative study of post-operative psychosocial function in women with primary operable breast cancer randomized to breast conservation therapy or mastectomy.
In a randomized patient series of 184 women suffering from primary operable breast carcinoma, psychosocial adjustment to breast-conserving therapy (BCT) vs mastectomy (M) was analysed retrospectively, including: (i) a comparison of intergroup characteristics; (ii) patient experience of the quality of professional pre-operative information; and (iii) the extent to which influence on choice of treatment was required. Using LASA (Linear Analogue Self-Assessment Scale), STAI (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), and a semi-structured interview, no psychosocial benefits were found in BCT compared with M. Mean observation time was 31 months (range: 15-65). Body image was less impaired in BCT than in M. Both groups scored highly on professional information, but reported reduced ability to take in such information in the peri-operative period. Both groups tended to depend on the surgeon when choosing between surgical options. Irrespective of primary therapy, women must still confront the fact that they have had cancer, a life-threatening disease which may recur. A need for further research into peri-operative information procedures was demonstrated, and some suggestions were derived concerning the surgeon's role in deciding on surgical options.
Poulsen
B
B
Department of Clinical Psychology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark.
Graversen
H P
HP
Beckmann
J
J
Blichert-Toft
M
M
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001007:Anxiety; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001828:Body Image; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology* / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008197:Lymph Node Excision; D015411:Mastectomy, Modified Radical / Q000523:psychology*; D015412:Mastectomy, Segmental / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010555:Personality Inventory; D011788:Quality of Life; D012725:Sexual Behavior