Planning treatment for breast cancer

In most hospitals a team of specialists will talk to you about the treatment they feel is best for your situation. This multidisciplinary team (MDT) will include:

• a surgeon who specialises in breast surgery and may also specialise in breast reconstruction
• a plastic surgeon who specialises in breast reconstruction 
• an oncologist (cancer specialist) who specialises in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy and biological therapy
• a specialist breast care nurse who gives information and support
• a research nurse involved in clinical trials
• a radiologist who analyses x-rays and scans
• a pathologist who advises on the type and extent of the cancer
• a physiotherapist who shows you exercises after surgery.

It may also include other healthcare professionals, such as a physiotherapist, psychologist, social worker or counsellor.

The MDT will take a number of factors into account when advising you on the best course of action, including your age, general health, the type| and size| of the cancer and whether it has begun to spread.

Doctors can also use specialised computer programmes (PREDICT and Adjuvant Online) to help them plan treatment after surgery. They help to show how much a treatment is likely to reduce the chance of the cancer coming back.