Abstract:
Objective To determine the radiotherapy scheme for an early-stage breast cancer patients after breast-conserving surgery based on evidence-based medicine.
Methods We searched databases including PubMed, The Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang Database and VIP Database up to October 31, 2015, to collect relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about external beam accelerated partial-breast irradiation for early-stage breast cancer patients with breast-conserving surgery. Radiotherapy techniques were not limiting conditions.
Results 3 RCTs were retrieved. Compared with whole breast irradiation, external beam accelerated partial-breast irradiation can significantly shorten the treatment time of radiotherapy and does not increase the risk of local recurrence, while it is limited to improve cosmetic results and to prolong the survival time.
Conclusions Adjuvant radiotherapy with external beam accelerated partial-breast irradiation is feasible for some early-stage breast-cancer with breast-conserving surgery, while additional RCTs are needed to assess the long-term efficacy, survival results and toxicity of this approach.