Motivations for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy as a function of socioeconomic status.

Background: Despite no demonstrated survival advantage for women at average risk of breast cancer, rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) continue to increase. Research reveals women with higher socioeconomic status (SES) are more likely to select CPM. This study examines how indicators of SES, age, and disease severity affect CPM motivations.

Social Network, Surgeon, and Media Influence on the Decision to Undergo Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy.

Objectives: The rate of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) has risen sharply in the past decade. The current study was designed to examine social network, surgeon, and media influence on patients' CPM decision-making, examining not only who influenced the decision, and to what extent, but also the type of influence exerted.

Methods: Patients (N=113) who underwent CPM at 4 Indiana University-affiliated hospitals between 2008 and 2012 completed structured telephone interviews in 2013.

Central venous port placement: a comparison of axillary versus anterior chest wall placement.

Background: To compare morbidity in patients with surgically implanted central venous ports that were placed in the subcutaneous tissues of the mid axillary line at the anterior border of the latissimus muscle (group A) versus the anterior chest wall (group C).

Methods: Between 2003 and 2007, a total of 183 patients with breast cancer were taken to the operating room for central venous port placement for delivery of chemotherapy. Port location was determined by patient and surgeon preference.

Can medical students achieve skills proficiency through simulation training?

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine whether third-year medical students can become proficient in open technical skills through simulation laboratory training.

Methods: A total of 204 students participated in a structured curriculum including bladder catheterization, breast examination, and knot-tying. Proficiency was documented using global rating scales and validated, objective, model-based metrics.

The effect of dedicated breast surgeons on the short-term outcomes in breast cancer.

Objective: The impact of breast surgeons on short-term outcomes in breast cancer care was compared at a single institution.

Summary Background Data: Many studies have demonstrated a correlation between high procedural volume and lower mortality in technically challenging procedures. Breast cancer treatment has significant impact on patient behavior, psychology, and appearance.