Breast Surgery/Oncology

1. Overview

In April 2019, we established the Department of Breast Surgery, with the goal of providing comprehensive diagnosis, surgical procedures, and treatment for all breast-related conditions.
In April 2021, we renovated our facilities and launched operations as a Breast Center.

• Diagnosis
  We diagnose breast diseases using mammography (MMG), ultrasound (echo), and breast MRI.
  If necessary, we perform fine-needle aspiration or core needle biopsy of breast masses, leading to a definitive diagnosis based on pathological examination. These biopsies are conducted using ultrasound or MMG guidance.
  Since May 2021, we have also introduced stereotactic-guided biopsies under mammography.
  Based on these confirmed diagnoses, we proceed with appropriate treatment plans.
  Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC): For patients diagnosed with breast cancer who have close relatives with breast, ovarian, pancreatic, or prostate cancer, we perform BRCA genetic testing via blood analysis. We also offer screening for family members who may carry the same genetic mutation.
   
• Surgery
  When surgery is required for benign conditions (such as fibroadenoma, phyllodes tumor, intraductal papilloma, mastopathy) or malignant tumors (such as breast cancer), we select the surgical method best suited to the disease. Surgical options include mass excision, partial mastectomy (breast-conserving surgery), total mastectomy, nipple- and areola-sparing mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery following breast cancer surgery.
  We also perform sentinel lymph node biopsy intraoperatively using radioisotopes (RI) or indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence methods.
  When insertion of a tissue expander is required for breast reconstruction after mastectomy, we perform simultaneous surgery in collaboration with plastic surgeons.
   
• Treatment
  We provide preoperative and postoperative hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and treatment for metastatic or recurrent breast cancer, in collaboration with the departments of radiation oncology and medical oncology.
  Recently, for patients found to have BRCA gene mutations associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, we have also begun offering prophylactic mastectomy.
   

2. Policy

• Providing the Most Advanced Care Within Insurance Coverage
  Breast cancer treatment is constantly evolving. What was standard five or ten years ago may now be outdated. Our goal is to stay current with the latest medical advancements to offer patients the best possible care.
   
• Specialized Care for All Genders
  We are striving to build a dedicated outpatient clinic specializing in breast. Breast diseases affect both women and men. While breast cancer is more common in women, it can also occur in men. About 5–10% of breast cancers are due to genetic mutations.
  We provide genetic counseling and testing in a supportive environment for both female and male patients.
   
• Expert Team in Breast Diseases
  Our team includes board-certified surgeons recognized by the Japan Surgical Society and Japan Breast Cancer Society, aiming to offer high-level, specialized care for all breast conditions.
   
• Minimizing the Waiting Period for Patients
  For patients without complications, we aim to begin treatment or surgery within 30 days of diagnosis, in order to reduce the anxiety caused by waiting.
   

3. Features

• Our treatment plans, including surgeries and therapies, are determined through thorough conferences. For breast cancer in particular, we go beyond departmental boundaries by regularly holding a multidisciplinary Cancer Board, aiming to provide the most appropriate and effective treatment.
• We offer team-based care tailored to each patient, involving specialists from breast surgery, radiology, medical oncology, nursing, radiological technology, genetic counseling, orthopedics, and physical therapy.

Message for Our Patients

• The Breast Surgery Department was established in April 2019 as a dedicated division specializing in breast health.
  We are committed to continuously updating our facilities, equipment, and staff to provide the highest standard of care. We welcome your feedback to help us improve both our services and our professional awareness. Please feel free to speak with our outpatient staff if you have any questions or concerns.
• In order to advance future breast cancer treatment, we also conduct various clinical research activities alongside routine medical care. Each study will be explained in detail, and your understanding and consent will be requested individually as needed.