Holly’s mastectomy and DCIS surgery experience

Holly Miller was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer back in April 2021 following a routine mammogram. Imaging and biopsy both identified suspicious DCIS in her right breast.

In speaking to her surgeon, Shawna Willey, MD, she discovered the ‘delayed’ sentinel lymph node biopsy, a procedure currently indicated for use in patients undergoing mastectomy in the US only.

Holly underwent a mastectomy on her right breast and full reconstruction, with the Magtrace® lymphatic tracer injected in the OR ahead of surgery.

Unfortunately, the results from pathology showed that she was in the roughly 20% minority of patients with invasive DCIS, and further surgery would be required. 

Holly was just one of three patients from Dr Willey’s first 40 using Magtrace to have to return to the operating room, but it was explained that the procedure was straightforward.

Fortunately for Holly, the removed lymph nodes were clear of cancer, meaning the cancer had not spread to the underarm.

Since her procedure Holly has been able to get back to her usual activities and is feeling like her self again.

Looking back on the decision to opt for this procedure, Holly is delighted with the results and how patient-friendly the whole process was.

→ Find out more about ‘delayed’ sentinel lymph node biopsy and our ‘SaveOurNodes’ campaign.