radical mastectomy

mastectomy /mas·tec·to·my/ (mast-ek´tah-me) excision of the breast.

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modified radical mastectomy  total mastectomy with axial node dissection, but leaving the pectoral muscles intact.

radical mastectomy  amputation of the breast with wide excision of the pectoral muscles and axillary lymph nodes.

subcutaneous mastectomy  excision of breast tissue with preservation of overlying skin, nipple, and areola so that the breast form may be reconstructed.

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radical mastectomy

n.

Surgical removal of the entire breast, the pectoral muscles, the lymphatic-bearing tissue in the armpit, and other neighboring tissues. Also called Halsted's operation.

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radical mastectomy,

surgical removal of an entire breast; pectoral muscles; axillary lymph nodes; and all fat, fascia, and adjacent tissues as one surgical treatment for breast cancer. Edema of the arm on the affected side is the rule because the axillary lymphatic structures that drain the lymph from the arm are removed during surgery. A pressure dressing is usually applied and left in place until bleeding and drainage have decreased. A drain is usually left in the wound for several days. Compare modified radical mastectomy, simple mastectomy. See also lumpectomy, mastectomy.

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radical mastectomy

Halsted radical mastectomy A mastectomy that removes the breast in toto, as well as skin, subcutaneous tissue, axillary lymph nodes, and muscle from the anterior thoracic wall. See Halsted radical mastectomy. Cf Modified radical mastectomy.