Abstract Aims This audit analysed breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and breast reconstruction postmastectomy (BRPM) outcomes at Mater Dei Hospital (2017–2020). Using the Breast Q™ questionnaire, it evaluated patient satisfaction along with psychosocial, and physical wellbeing. The aim was to identify differences in outcomes, enhance patient counselling and guide surgical decisions for breast cancer treatment. Methods This retrospective audit analysed 46 patients: 23 undergoing BCS and 23 undergoing BRPM between 2017 and 2020. Patient-reported outcomes were evaluated using the BREASTQ™, assessing key domains. Data were summarised using descriptive statistics, with comparisons drawn between the two surgical groups. Results BCS patients reported statistically significant higher scores in physical well-being (70.0% vs 64.6%, p = 0.01) and slightly better sexual well-being (73.3% vs 66.7%, p = 0.83), while BRPM patients showed higher psychosocial well-being (74.0% vs 69.4%, p = 0.17). Satisfaction with breast outcomes appeared higher in the BCS group (83.5% vs 63.3%, p = 0.43). Cancer worry, fatigue, and impact on work scores were similar between groups, with no statistically significant differences. Conclusions Our study showed that both BCS and BRPM provide satisfactory outcomes, but the choice should be tailored to each patient's priorities. Treatment decisions should be made collaboratively, with both oncological safety and patient satisfaction at the forefront.
Bugeja et al. (Fri,) studied this question.