Beth DuPree, MD, Medical Director, The Breast Health Program, Holy Redeemer Health System, explains that the Z11 trial that looked at the elimination of axillary dissection in patients with breast cancer has a lot to offer despite the criticisms of the trial.

The trial demonstrated that systemic treatment of cancer with chemotherapy plays an important role, especially in breast cancer. 97% of patients on the trial received chemotherapy.

Some of the patients on the trial received higher levels of radiation therapy than others. The criteria used to decide which patients received more was unclear and it was unknown whether there was an intentional increase in the use of radiation therapy in certain patients. The trial does suggest that rather than completing axillary dissection it may be possible to control the axilla using radiation alone.

Many of the criticisms of the study were well founded, but the study still played an important role. Lymphedema can be very impairing for women and the Z11 trial has aided in the prevention of aggressive and unneeded surgeries that result in this debilitating side effect.

Videos

Dr. Beth DuPree from Holy Redeemer Health System Provides Z11 Trial Takeaway Points

Dr. DuPree Provides Z11 Trial Takeaway Points

Beth DuPree, MD, Medical Director, The Breast Health Program, Holy Redeemer Health System, explains her discussion on breast cancer care that she gave to nurse navigators at the 3rd Annual National Coalition of Oncology Nurse Navigators (

DuPree offers a unique perspective to nurses because she is a breast cancer surgeon. The highest need for a nurse is continued education because breast cancer is a constantly changing field. Breast cancer care changes based upon clinical trial data. The treatment has changed drastically since 20-30 years ago and will continue to change into the future.

Breast cancer care has moved from radically invasive to what DuPree labels as "humane" treatment. The nurses’ role will be to stay with the patient and educate them throughout the entire care process. Many changes have occurred over the past few years. The introduction of the Z11 data has resulted in the prevention of aggressive and unneeded surgeries.

Since the last NCONN conference a year ago practice has changed significantly with the release of a new trial focusing on sentinel node biopsy at the beginning of 2011. Breast cancer care is an ever-changing field that requires constant updates to stay up-to-date with research and trials.

Dr. Beth DuPree from Holy Redeemer Health System Updates Nurses on Breast Cancer Treatment

Beth DuPree, MD

Articles

Dr. DuPree Provides Z11 Trial Takeaway Points

Dr. Dupree Updates Nurses on Breast Cancer Treatment