Breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction varies by race, U-M study finds

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Latinas who spoke little English were less likely to undergo reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy for breast cancer, according to a study from researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Are breast cancer patients being kept in the dark?

Arlington Heights, Ill. -- Despite the increase of breast reconstruction procedures performed in 2008, nearly 70 percent of women who are eligible for the procedure are not informed of the reconstructive options available to them, according to a recently published report.

Botox could play a key role in pain control during breast reconstruction

Botox, a household name for wrinkle reduction, could be assuming a new role as a pain reliever. In a study presented today at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Plastic Surgery 2004 conference in Philadelphia, women injected with Botox in the pectoral muscles following the surgical removal of their breast experienced significantly less pain and shorter hospital stays. ''As surgeons, our top priorities are the safety and comfort of our patients,'' said Julio Hochberg, MD, ASPS member and co-author of the study. ''We are always searching for ways to decrease pain for breast reconstruction patients and found that using Botox after surgery significantly decreased the pain and discomfort they experienced.''