An evaluation of post-lumpectomy recurrence rates: is follow-up every 6 months for 2 years needed?

Background And Objectives: There is currently debate about the optimal timing and frequency of mammography follow-up after breast-conserving therapy (BCT). The purpose of this study was to determine if 6-month intervals for the first 2 years following BCT offer benefit over annual screening.

Methods: Three hundred ninety-nine patients who had lumpectomies between 1997 and 2009 and who were followed for at least 2 years with mammography were selected.