Specific training: the key in order to become a breast surgeon

Breast cancer surgery is aware of this new reality and for the last years we have witnessed meaningful developments in the surgical management of women with breast cancer. These developments were achieved by professionals with a special dedication to breast diseases. It should be noted that there have been advances in the field of oncoplastic and reconstructive procedures of the breast; said advances intend to improve the quality of the breast-conserving surgery, and to increase the number of cases of immediate breast reconstruction. In some cases, the introduction of these oncoplastic and reconstructive procedures created a conflict among specializations, as the preferential or exclusive dedication to breast surgical oncology by general surgeons and gynecologists resulted in a specific and certified training in breast remodeling and reconstruction with results similar to those of other specializations.

In light of these new developments in educational and professional terms, the Spanish Association of Breast Surgeons wishes to clarify its position statement, which is summarized here:

  • Breast surgical oncology belongs to the multidisciplinary management of the process and, based on this fact, the appointment of the professionals responsible for the performance of the oncoplastic and reconstructive procedures should be the result of a decision made by the multidisciplinary group. This decision should follow a consensus based on the availability and training of the surgeon, as well as the institution’s own history.
  • Currently, a proprietary concept regarding the surgical techniques as the exclusive property of a specialization field is not sustainable. Therefore, this concept of property should be redirected towards a new concept of availability for women with breast cancer aimed at improving their cancer care.
  • Specific and certified training in the field of oncoplastic and reconstructive procedures of the breast may be achieved through specialist training programs (medical interns) or specific programs for this subject in the setting of Continuing Medical Training, regardless of the starting specialization.
  • The final benefit of the oncoplastic and reconstructive procedures of the breast should enjoyed by women, not by the specializations or the specialists. That is why it is necessary to promote the training in these procedures, with the purpose of ensuring that they are performed as often as possible. The Spanish Association of Breast Surgeons is committed to promote the oncoplastic and reconstructive procedures through dissemination strategies and specific training programs.

Document approved by AECIMA’s Board of Directors, June 27, 2011.