Unveiling perceptions regarding post mastectomy breast reconstruction: A questionnaire‐based survey of patients from central India

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionPost mastectomy breast reconstruction uptake remains low in the developing countries. We examined patient perspectives about it in a cohort of Indian breast cancer patients.MethodsThis prospective study was conducted at a tertiary care center in central India. All post mastectomy patients for breast cancer were interviewed via a survey questionnaire to assess their perspective regarding post mastectomy breast reconstruction.ResultsNone of the 192 patients underwent immediate or delayed reconstruction by the end of 24 months follow‐up. Age, education level, occupation and marital status did not affect the uptake of post mastectomy breast reconstruction. The most common patient‐reported reasons for not having reconstruction were the desire to avoid additional surgery and the belief that it was not important (80% for each). System related factors such as additional cost of surgery and additional length of stay were reported to be important by 55% and 65% patients respectively.ConclusionOur survey of 192 post mastectomy breast cancer patients showed that none opted for post mastectomy reconstruction, suggesting significant barriers to it. Understanding and addressing these barriers are crucial to ensuring comprehensive care for these breast cancer patients.