Changes in the investigation and management of primary operable breast cancer in Victoria

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the surgical practice and adjuvant therapies used in the treatment of primary operable breast cancer in Victoria in 1990 and compare them with results of a similar study in 1986. Design: All 856 cases of primary operable breast cancer registered by the Victorian Cancer Registry between 1 April and 30 September 1990 were identified. Each patient's surgeon was sent a standard questionnaire covering diagnosis, investigations, operative procedures, adjuvant therapies and reasons for certain management choices. Data were collected on 89% of the patients from 176 participating surgeons. Results: Most patients (82%) were referred to surgeons by general practitioners. Mamm..