Breast

Below is a list of breast issues and treatment options provided by our experienced general surgery team.

Common issues we treat

Breast cancer: Any cancer in the tissues of the breast is considered breast cancer. There are two main types: ductal carcinoma and lobular carcinoma.

• Ductal carcinoma: This type of breast cancer starts in the tubes (ducts) that carry milk from the breast to the nipple. This is the most common type of breast cancer.
• Lobular carcinoma: This type of breast cancer starts in the lobules. Lobules are the parts of the breast that produce milk.

Breast lumps: Breast lumps can happen in both men and women. A breast lump can be cancerous, but most lumps are not.

High risk for breast cancer: We offer consultations and biannual cancer screening appointments for patients who have higher risk for developing breast cancer.

Nipple discharge: Any fluid that comes out of the nipple is considered nipple discharge. This can be a sign of breast cancer, but most often is not.

If you have any breast concerns, do not delay care. Call your primary care provider or St. Luke’s Comprehensive Breast Program at 218.249.2662, and one of St. Luke’s Nurse Navigators will get you in quickly for an appointment.

Procedures available at St. Luke’s

Breast lump removal (lumpectomy): During this surgery, a lump that may be breast cancer is removed. The tissue around the lump is also removed.

Lymph node biopsy: The lymph nodes are small glands located in many parts of the body, including the neck, armpit, chest, abdomen and groin. When there is cancer present in a body, it can spread to the lymph nodes. A biopsy is the removal of a small amount of tissue for examination.

Mastectomy: A mastectomy is surgery to remove the breast tissue. Some of the skin and the nipple may also be removed. Most of the time, mastectomy is done to treat cancer. However, it is sometimes done to prevent cancer.Our breast surgeons work closely with plastic surgeons for women who desire reconstruction following mastectomy. This will be discussed at your consult with your surgeon if you are a candidate for this.

Learn more about breast surgery at St. Luke’s.