BC3 Breast Cancer Coordinated Care Conference

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women. Its diagnosis and treatment are part of the practice of a wide number of medical specialties including primary care physicians, medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, breast surgeons, plastic surgeons, radiation oncologists, psychologists and other healthcare professions. There are national initiatives calling for a multidisciplinary approach to the care of these patients. The multiple components and aspects of the treatment of breast cancer require a high level of coordinated care among different specialties. This coordination becomes even more challenging because of the rapid evolution of new treatment modalities and is especially important because of the possibility of improved outcomes both in terms of curing the disease, as well as maintaining the physical and psychological well-being of the patient. This meeting is the first of its kind to assemble an international faculty of specialists focused on the local treatment of breast cancer including breast surgeons, plastic surgeons and radiation oncologists. The intent of the meeting is to present a range of treatment options and points of view from different specialties regarding specific controversial areas of treatment. The meeting will offer presentations and panel discussions on a number of currently important topics in the local treatment of breast cancer including oncoplastic surgery, the role of prophylactic mastectomy, the state of partial breast irradiation, intraoperative radiation therapy, timing and indications for post-mastectomy radiation, neoadjuvant chemotherapy and its role in restaging breast cancer, nipple-sparing mastectomy both therapeutic and prophylactic, treatment of breast cancer in a previously augmented breast, the status of MRI screening for breast cancer, the effects of reconstruction on the delivery of post-mastectomy radiation, and the evolving role of alloplastic materials in breast reconstruction. Attendees will hear different models for coordination of breast cancer from major centers across the USA. They will also hear arguments for and against treatments such as nipple-sparing mastectomy in the patient with breast cancer and the timing of reconstruction vis-a-vis postmastectomy radiation therapy. The meetings intent is not only to educate the faculty and attendees about the wide range of options available for breast cancer coordinated care, but also to encourage the development of more standardized treatment strategies and protocols in the local treatment of breast cancer.