An Integrated Optimization of Surgery and Radiotherapy Techniques to Improve Cosmetic Outcome and Quality of Life in Breast Conserving Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients (STARLINGS Study)

An Integrated Optimization of Surgery and Radiotherapy Techniques to Improve Cosmetic Outcome and Quality of Life in Breast Conserving Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients.

To assess the role of different combinations of (oncoplastic) surgery and radiotherapy techniques as risk factors for moderate to severe fibrosis and for moderate to poor cosmetic outcome.

The primary objectives of this study are to assess the role of different combinations of (oncoplastic) surgery and radiotherapy techniques as risk factors for moderate to severe fibrosis and for moderate to poor cosmetic outcome. Based on these insights predictive models for the development of moderate to severe fibrosis and moderate to poor cosmetic outcome will be developed. Second, the relation between the presence and severity of fibrosis, cosmetic outcome and different QoL domains and symptoms will be assessed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female patients aged ≥ 18 years
• History of BCT with adjuvant radiation therapy for non-metastatic, histologically proven invasive breast cancer or DCIS. In light of BCT adjuvant systemic treatment (i.e. endocrine therapy, chemotherapy and immune therapy) is allowed.
• Operated between 1st of January 2016 and 31th of December 2020
• Treated according to the currently applied dose fractionation schedules, i.e. whole breast radiotherapy (22, 23), with or without boost
• Adequate understanding of the Dutch language and written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any breast surgery or re-irradiation on the breast area after BCT
• Progression of disease (and additional treatment) since BCT
• Patients who received partial breast irradiation
• Current pregnancy or breast feeding