Which structures are preserved in scanlon’s modified radical mastectomy
**Core Concept**
Scanlon's modified radical mastectomy is a surgical procedure that aims to remove the breast tissue along with the lymph nodes while preserving other important structures. This procedure is a variation of the traditional radical mastectomy, which was more aggressive in its approach.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In Scanlon's modified radical mastectomy, the pectoralis minor muscle is preserved, whereas in the traditional radical mastectomy, it is removed. The pectoralis minor muscle is a thin muscle that plays a crucial role in the movement of the shoulder joint. By preserving this muscle, the procedure aims to minimize the loss of function and maintain the integrity of the shoulder joint. Additionally, the pectoralis major muscle, the serratus anterior muscle, and the skin over the serratus anterior muscle are also preserved in this modified procedure.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the pectoralis minor muscle is not preserved in all types of mastectomies, but specifically in Scanlon's modified radical mastectomy, it is preserved.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the serratus anterior muscle is indeed preserved in Scanlon's modified radical mastectomy, but the skin over the serratus anterior muscle is also preserved, making this option incomplete.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the pectoralis major muscle is preserved in Scanlon's modified radical mastectomy, but the option does not mention the preservation of the pectoralis minor muscle.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because the axillary vein and lymph nodes are removed in Scanlon's modified radical mastectomy, not preserved.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember the mnemonic "P-M-S" to recall the structures preserved in Scanlon's modified radical mastectomy: P (pectoralis major), M (minor), and S (serratus anterior).
**Correct Answer: C. Pectoralis major muscle, pectoralis minor muscle, and serratus anterior muscle**