PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — New advancements in breast cancer surgery are now available closer to home for people in South Jersey. Virtua Health said it is the first in that region to offer a new type of minimally invasive mastectomy.
Virtua said the laparoscopic procedure gives patients faster recovery, less pain after surgery, and a better cosmetic result.
Unlike a traditional mastectomy, the nipple is preserved, making scars virtually hidden. And, officials said the procedure may eliminate the need for a second reconstructive surgery.
Virtua said it is also using a donor nerve grafting technique that can restore sensation in the breast after a nipple-sparing mastectomy.
Nearly 80% of women experience pain, numbness or both after breast cancer surgery, Virtua said, hindering their overall recovery.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in the U.S., affecting about 1 in 8 women.
