Hong Kong pioneers world-first clinical trial for breast cancer procedure
Clinical trial integrates lipofilling surgical practices with breast conservation, offering patients solution for better post-op well-being
The preliminary findings released on Thursday by the university’s Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine also showed that breast cancer patients who underwent the procedure showed no signs of immediate surgical complications or recurrence of the disease.
“One of the biggest fears for many women diagnosed with breast cancer is the possibility of losing their breasts,” said Ava Kwong Hoi-wai, a clinical professor and breast cancer researcher who led the university’s study.
“Our goal is to expand the treatment options for patients suitable for breast-conserving surgery to improve post-operative breast symmetry and natural appearance – ultimately improving patients’ confidence and quality of life,” she said.
While a mastectomy, or breast removal surgery, has traditionally been the most common form of treatment for breast cancer, women are increasingly receiving a type of conserving surgery where parts of the surrounding tissue are used to reshape the breast after the tumour has been removed.