What is a radical mastectomy?

A radical mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the complete removal of breast tissue along with underlying muscle tissue and sometimes the surrounding lymph nodes. This approach is typically employed in cases of more advanced breast cancer, where there is a significant risk of metastasis, and a more aggressive surgical intervention is needed to ensure that the malignancy is adequately addressed.

This procedure contrasts with more limited surgeries, such as lumpectomy or segmental mastectomy, where only part of the breast tissue is removed, or other options that do not involve surgical removal. Supportive care for breast cancer typically refers to interventions aimed at alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life rather than directly targeting the cancer itself. The option that describes only the tumor being removed aligns more with conservative surgical practices, while treatment with radiation therapy is a form of non-invasive treatment that is often applied post-surgery or as a standalone treatment for certain breast cancer cases.

The radical mastectomy is a comprehensive surgical approach that encompasses a broader scope of tissue removal to effectively combat the disease, making it the correct choice in this context.