extended radical mastectomy

An extended radical mastectomy is a surgical procedure for removing a breast, typically to treat cancer. This surgery involves the removal of the entire breast, the pectoral muscles, and both the axillary and internal mammary lymph nodes.1

The goal of this procedure, like other forms of mastectomy, is to ensure the complete eradication of cancerous tissue. This often includes removing a margin of surrounding tissue and sometimes nearby structures to prevent the spread of malignancy. The decision to perform an extended radical mastectomy depends on the cancer's location, extent, and the type of cells involved, as determined by diagnostic tests and biopsies. While historically a more extensive approach, advancements in treatments and surgical techniques have led to the preference for less invasive procedures like the modified radical mastectomy in many cases.12