• PURPOSE OF REVIEW
    • The definition of locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) includes patients with large tumors, extensive regional lymph node involvement, or direct involvement of the skin or underlying chest wall. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery has become the standard of care and a valuable strategy in the multimodality management of LABC. Variations in practice exist and the purpose of this article is to explore the surgical considerations in the management of LABC.
  • RECENT FINDINGS
    • There exist various diagnostic and treatment considerations in LABC patients that help guiding clinicians in the optimal management of LABC. The evolving concepts of breast conservation, immediate breast reconstruction and optimal management of the axilla are addressed.
  • SUMMARY
    • LABC represents a heterogenous cohort of patients for whom a multidisciplinary care team is critical. A more detailed understanding of the surgical considerations will facilitate the optimal diagnostic evaluation and management of these patients.