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The nurse is caring for a 39-year-old woman with a family history of breast cancer. She requested a breast tumor marking test and the results have come back positive. As a result, the patient is requesting a bilateral mastectomy. This surgery is an example of what type of oncologic surgery?

  • A. Salvage surgery
  • B. Palliative surgery
  • C. Prophylactic surgery
  • D. Reconstructive surgery
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Prophylactic surgery. Prophylactic surgery involves removing tissue at risk of developing cancer to prevent the occurrence of cancer. In this case, the patient has a family history of breast cancer and has tested positive for a breast tumor marker, indicating a high risk of developing breast cancer. By opting for a bilateral mastectomy, the patient is proactively removing breast tissue to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer.

Salvage surgery (A) is performed to remove cancer that has recurred after initial treatment. Palliative surgery (B) aims to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life but is not curative. Reconstructive surgery (D) is performed to restore the appearance and function of a body part after cancer treatment but is not the primary purpose in this scenario.