Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Nursing Practice Test

The primary goal of a modified radical mastectomy is to achieve a balance between effective cancer treatment and preserving as much surrounding tissue as possible. In this surgical procedure, the entire breast and lymphatic-bearing tissue in the armpit, also referred to as axillary lymph nodes, are removed. This is crucial for ensuring that any potential cancer that may have spread to the lymph nodes is also addressed.

By removing the lymphatic tissue, the surgeon aims to prevent the spread of cancer cells that might be present in those nodes. The modified radical approach allows for comprehensive treatment while minimizing the impact on surrounding muscles, often leading to improved postoperative outcomes in terms of mobility and aesthetics, as compared to more extensive surgeries like a radical mastectomy, where the chest muscles would also be removed.

The focus on the breast and lymph nodes specifically in this surgery helps in both controlling the disease and allowing for subsequent treatments, such as radiation or chemotherapy, to be more effective, should they be necessary.