The role of multidisciplinary team approach in changing the trend in management of breast cancer

Abstract

Background & Aim: breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Several specialties are involved in managing that cancer. The Multidisciplinary team Approach [MDTA] has been employed internationally for many years. Adoption is not yet worldwide,but it is increasing.

Aim: to find out the role of MDTA in changing the practice in managing breast cancer, and ultimately breast reconstruction.

Materials and Methods: this study was designed as a clinical trial, at Damascus University (AL MOWASSAT University Hospital).  124 pts were recruited. Cases were divided into two groups, first group was managed before the implementation of the MDTA, the second group was managed by the MDTA. We looked at the changes in factors as type of mastectomy, type of reconstruction, time of reconstruction, referral side and pts satisfactions.

Results: increase in conserving breast surgery cases.  Increase in conserving breast reconstruction.  Increase in immediate breast reconstruction cases. High rates of pts satisfactions.

Conclusion: MDTA     leads to a wider range of choices in managing Breast cancer. It improves the standard of clinical practice, patient's services and thereafter higher satisfaction rates.