Comparing Patient Reported Outcomes and Clinical Outcomes Based on Different Scar Placement in Patients Undergoing Standard Breast Conserving Surgery for Breast Cancer: The PROM-S Study.
This study is investigating how the position of scars after standard breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer affects how patients feel about their recovery and appearance. Doctors can place scars directly over where the cancer was, or in less visible places like around the nipple or under the breast. Currently, it's not clear if one scar placement leads to better patient satisfaction than another. Researchers will ask patients to complete a special questionnaire called BREAST-Q before surgery, and then again at different times afterwards. This will help them understand if the scar's location makes a difference to how happy patients are. The aim is to use this information to help future patients make informed decisions about their surgery.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about understanding how patients feel after having breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer. Breast-conserving surgery, also known as a lumpectomy, removes the cancer while keeping most of the breast. It's a common operation for many women with breast cancer.
When this surgery is done, there will be a scar. Doctors can make this scar directly over the area where the cancer was, or they can try to hide the scar in a less noticeable place. For example, they might put it around the nipple, under the breast, or closer to the armpit. Many things can influence where the scar is placed, such as the size and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's other health conditions. Surgeons also consider the patient's appearance after surgery, and try to make the scar as discreet as possible.
However, we don't currently know if placing the scar in a more hidden location actually makes a difference to how a patient feels about their breast's appearance and their overall satisfaction with the surgery. This study aims to find this out by asking patients directly about their experiences using a special questionnaire. The results will help doctors guide future patients, offering them the best advice and care possible.
Key takeaways
- This study explores how scar position after breast cancer surgery affects patient happiness.
- It aims to understand if hidden scars lead to more satisfaction.
- Patients will fill out a special questionnaire before and after surgery.
- Your medical care and surgery plans will not change if you take part.
- The findings will help guide future care for breast cancer patients.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women aged 18 or over. You must be able to understand what the study involves and be happy to give your permission to take part. You should have breast cancer (either invasive breast cancer or DCIS) that can be treated with standard breast-conserving surgery, which is when the cancer is removed but most of the breast is left behind. You also need to be able to fill out the questionnaires.
You would not be able to join this study if you are a man, or if you need different types of breast surgery, such as a mastectomy (complete removal of the breast) or more complex breast-conserving surgery that reshapes the breast significantly. You also can't take part if you've already had breast surgery on the same breast before, or if your cancer involves the skin in a way that requires more skin to be removed.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you a woman aged 18 or older?
- Do you have breast cancer suitable for standard breast-conserving surgery?
- Can you understand information and complete questionnaires in English?
- Are you having your surgery at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust?
- Have you not had previous surgery on the same breast?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, your regular medical care and decisions about your surgery will not change. You'll simply be asked to complete a questionnaire called BREAST-Q. You will need to complete this questionnaire four times:
* Once before your surgery. * About two weeks after your surgery. * Three months after your surgery. * Twelve months (one year) after your surgery.
Each questionnaire asks about how you feel concerning your breast's appearance and your overall satisfaction. Your participation will help future patients by providing valuable insights into scar placement and patient satisfaction.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- St James's University HospitalVerified postcodeLeeds, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is breast-conserving surgery?
It's an operation that removes the breast cancer and some healthy tissue around it, but keeps most of your breast. It's also known as a lumpectomy.
What is a 'scar placement'?
It's about where the surgeon makes the cut for your operation. They can place the scar directly over the cancer or try to hide it in a less noticeable area on your breast.
What is the BREAST-Q questionnaire?
It's a special questionnaire designed to ask patients about their satisfaction and feelings regarding their breast appearance and overall experience after breast surgery.
Will my surgery be different if I join this study?
No, your surgery and medical care will not change. The study is just observing how you feel about your scar placement after your planned surgery.
Do I have to live in Leeds to take part?
Yes, this study is recruiting patients who are having their breast-conserving surgery at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
How to find out more
Sue M Dr Hartup, PhD, RGN
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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