The Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer (QSCBC), in 2020, completed two new operating suites specifically designed to cover the full range of surgical breast procedures, including intra-operative radiation facilities. The QSCBC was the first unit in Asia to offer intra-operative irradiation to supplement the orthodox method. (The second generation equipment for intra-operative irradiation was added in 2020.) This method of irradiation is available to certain suitable breast cancer patients; it allows a patient to have one dose of radiotherapy in the operating theatre, thereby avoiding multiple visits, which is particularly helpful to patients living in remote rural areas. The QSCBC is part of an international multicentric intra-operative irradiation research trial. This method of treatment is also being investigated for efficacy in elderly breast cancer patients.
The QSCBC was also the first unit in Thailand to promote breast conservation for breast cancer over 25 years ago. Every effort is made to preserve a patient’s breast
according to their personal needs and wishes. The weekly multidisciplinary breast cancer conference plays a vital and significant role in making the final decision in difficult and problematic cases. It is a valuable part of the training of young clinicians and specialist nurses . The weekly meeting also encompasses the philosophy of care at the QSCBC, namely the patient centric strategy of care with a close -knit multidisciplinary approach, incorporating the most modern, but also using the best established techniques available.
