Simple Mastectomy includes removal of: September 2005 & 2006
**Core Concept**
Simple mastectomy involves surgical removal of the entire breast tissue, including the skin, nipple, areola, and subcutaneous fat. It is distinct from modified radical mastectomy, which also removes axillary lymph nodes. This procedure is indicated for early-stage breast cancer or high-risk prophylaxis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer must specify removal of the breast tissue, skin, nipple, areola, and subcutaneous fat. Simple mastectomy preserves the pectoralis major muscle and does not include axillary lymph node dissection. This contrasts with more extensive procedures like radical mastectomy (which removes chest wall muscles) or modified radical mastectomy (which removes lymph nodes).
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect if it excludes the nipple/areola or includes axillary nodes.
**Option B:** Incorrect if it mentions removal of pectoralis major muscle (reserved for radical mastectomy).
**Option C:** Incorrect if it refers to lumpectomy, which preserves most breast tissue.
**Option D:** Incorrect if it includes axillary lymph node dissection (modified radical mastectomy).
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember: *"Simple = Skin, Nipple, Areola, Subcutaneous fat; No lymph nodes or muscles."* Modified radical mastectomy adds axillary node removal. Avoid confusing "simple" with "radical," which involves chest wall muscle excision.
**Correct Answer: C. Breast tissue, skin, nipple, areola, and subcutaneous fat**