Breast Surgery Unit
The Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer (QSCBC), in 2020, completed two new operating suites specifically designed to cover the full range of surgical breast procedures, including intra-operative radiation facilities. The QSCBC was the first unit in Asia to offer intra-operative irradiation to supplement the orthodox method. (The second generation equipment for intra-operative irradiation was added in 2020.) This method of irradiation is available to certain suitable breast cancer patients; it allows a patient to have one dose of radiotherapy in the operating theatre, thereby avoiding multiple visits, which is particularly helpful to patients living in remote rural areas. The QSCBC is part of an international multicentric intra-operative irradiation research trial. This method of treatment is also being investigated for efficacy in elderly breast cancer patients.
The QSCBC was also the first unit in Thailand to promote breast conservation for breast cancer over 25 years ago. Every effort is made to preserve a patient’s breast
according to their personal needs and wishes. The weekly multidisciplinary breast cancer conference plays a vital and significant role in making the final decision in difficult and problematic cases. It is a valuable part of the training of young clinicians and specialist nurses . The weekly meeting also encompasses the philosophy of care
at the QSCBC, namely the patient centric strategy of care with a close -knit multidisciplinary approach, incorporating the most modern, but also using the best established techniques available.
Breast Surgery available in the Breast Surgery Unit
at Vongvanit Building 3rd Floor
1. Breast Cancer and Breast Mass Surgery We offer both Breast Conserving Surgery (BCS)
and Mastectomy, including options for Breast Reconstruction. The surgeon will evaluate
the condition and provide personalized recommendations to each patient.
2. Axillary Node Surgery At the Queen Sirikit Center, we evaluate axillary lymph nodes
using Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB). This involves injecting a lymphatic tracer,
which currently includes three types: Isosulfan Blue Dye, Indocyanine Green (ICG),
and Radio-isotope. In cases where cancer cells have spread to the lymph nodes,
the surgeon will further assess the necessity of an Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND).
3. Intraoperative Radiotherapy (IORT) The Queen Sirikit Center has been experienced in Intraoperative Radiotherapy (IORT) since 2009. The primary goal of IORT is to reduce the recurrence rate of breast cancer. In certain patients, IORT can replace the need
for post-operative radiation, thereby reducing the number of hospital visits and
the financial burden of travel. Currently, the center is equipped with two INTRABEAM machines and has provided treatment to over 200 patients.
4. Breast Biopsy The Queen Sirikit Center provides comprehensive pathological diagnostic services, including Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA), Core Needle Biopsy (CNB),
and vacuum-assisted biopsy (Mammotome). Our pathologists, surgeons, and radiologists collaborate closely to determine the most appropriate method for each patient.
5. Port-A-Cath Insertion As some breast cancer patients require long-term chemotherapy and may face difficulties with peripheral venous access, the Queen Sirikit Center offers
Port-A-Cath insertion services. This implanted device facilitates the administration of chemotherapy, significantly reducing the pain and discomfort of repeated needle sticks.
An experienced surgeon will evaluate the suitability of this procedure
for each individual patient.