TITLE:
Multidisciplinary Breast Conference Improves Patient Management and Treatment
AUTHORS:
Vijayashree Murthy, Silvana Nobre, Lauren Sparber, Sarah Schaefer, Elissa Santoro, Janette McDermott, Ronald Chamberlain, Michele Blackwood
KEYWORDS:
Breast Conference, Multidisciplinary Breast Meeting, Breast Tumor Board
JOURNAL NAME:
Surgical Science,
Vol.5 No.7,
July
30,
2014
ABSTRACT: Introduction:
Multidisciplinary breast conference (BC) that discusses different
clinicopathological aspects of disease creates a sound, complete and unique
treatment plan for each patient. The aim of this study was to investigate the
role of weekly breast tumor boards in patient management and treatment
modifications. Methods: From June 2010 to June 2011, 242 patients (Stage 0 to
Stage 4 breast cancer) were prospectively presented before a multidisciplinary
team. Presentation included clinical data, imaging and pathological review
followed by prospective treatment plan formulated by the physician group. If
postoperative presentation, final histopathology of the tumor and adjuvant
treatment relevant to each patient was discussed. Breast conference was
performed via teleconference, including video projection of pathology slides
and images. Feedback evaluations were completed and returned to the Tumor Registry
for consistent weekly improvement of BC. Results: 102 patients (42%) had
modified management after being presented at BC, 38% (n = 39) surgical,
33% (n = 34) medical (chemotherapy/endocrine therapy), 17% (n = 17) radiation,
6% (n = 6) both medical and radiation treatment and 6% (n = 6) imaging changes.
Majority of changes were made to patients with Stage IA (27%) followed by Stage
0 (21%) breast cancer. Conclusion: Breast conference presents a significant
impact on patient management and serves as a model for best practice in cancer
care. Consultative discussion of each case permits every team member to be
acutely aware of the patient’s condition, contribute to treatment plan and
permit a harmonious and cooperative team approach while assuring best treatment
for the patient.