The impact and treatment of scars after breast reconstruction: scarred for life?

Authors Kristel Everaars
Publication date 2024
Research groups Innovatie van Zorgprocessen in de Farmacie
Type Doctoral thesis

Summary

Breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer that affects women worldwide, posing a significant burden on public health. While advancements in early detection and improved treatments have led to a remarkable 90% five-year survival rate and an 83% ten-year survival rate, this has also resulted in more prophylactic mastectomies being performed. Despite advancements in breast-conserving techniques, immunotherapy, and hormone therapy, many women still undergo mastectomies as part of their cancer treatment. In all cases, this results in scarring, and additional side effects from treatment modalities may arise. The loss of a breast can profoundly impact health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Although HRQoL has improved greatly during the recent years, systematic and local therapy having side effects is not uncommon, and this needs more attention.

On this publication contributed

  • Kristel Everaars | onderzoeker | lectoraat Innovatie van Zorgprocessen in de Farmacie
    Kristel Everaars
    • PhD candidate
    • Research group: Innovatie van Zorgprocessen in de Farmacie

Language Engels
Key words quality of life, breast reconstruction, cancer patients, scarring

Kristel Everaars

Kristel Everaars | onderzoeker | lectoraat Innovatie van Zorgprocessen in de Farmacie

Kristel Everaars

  • PhD candidate
  • Research group: Innovatie van Zorgprocessen in de Farmacie