Medical knowledge is doubling faster and faster. Surgeons are highly specialized and
must be trained not only in surgery, but also in imaging and oncology to meet the
modern requirements of a breast center. This article describes what has changed in
the surgical treatment of breast cancer over the past 20 years since the introduction
of certified breast centers in Germany, and what could change in the future. Pre-
and post-operative conferences have become a central component of the interdisciplinary
exchange of information. Every breast-conserving operation must be precisely planned,
marked and carried out in a controlled manner. Basic anatomical knowledge is not sufficient
enough to perform a prophylactic mastectomy. Implant-based reconstructions change
their shape and strength over time and usually lead to follow-up operations. Tissue
engineering offers interesting approaches to replace the disadvantages of conventional
implants in order to achieve the durability and quality similar to autologous tissue
reconstructions.
Keywords
Breast cancer - oncoplastic - reconstruction - prophylactic - risk-reducing
