Surgery in the Setting of Metastatic Breast Cancer

Purpose of Review: Among individuals with metastatic breast cancer, surgical resection of the primary tumor remains controversial, and its benefit is unclear. In this review, we highlight select retrospective and prospective studies which have sought to address this clinical scenario. In addition, we discuss further considerations that may be relevant. Recent Findings: Numerous retrospective studies have suggested a potential survival benefit associated with surgical resection of the primary breast tumor in women with metastatic disease; however, three randomized controlled trials more recently have challenged these findings. Mixed results have demonstrated no survival benefit with locoregional treatment versus limited benefit in select patient groups. Summary: Prospective studies suggest that most patients with metastatic breast cancer are unlikely to experience a survival benefit related to resection of their primary tumor. However, ongoing work seeks to further define if there may be select subgroups that could benefit from surgery.

Duke Scholars

Author Jennifer K Plichta Surgical Oncology