Clinicopathological and Perioperative Predictors of Postoperative Complications and Early Recovery Following Modified Radical Mastectomy in Patients with Breast Carcinoma: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Modified radical mastectomy (MRM) remains an important surgical procedure for breast carcinoma, but there are several complications following the surgery and delayed recovery that may impact patients' outcomes. Predictors in clinics and perioperatively can aid risk assessment and perioperatively management.

Objective: To examine clinicopathological and peri-operative factors related to the early recovery and postoperative complications after modified radical mastectomy in breast carcinoma patients.

Place and Duration of Study: From July 2025 to March 2026 at the Department of General Surgery, Naseurallah Khan Babar Memorial Hospital and Peshawar.

Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out in 160 patients who were undergoing MRM. The WHO sample size calculation formula was used for the calculation of sample size. Demographic, clinicopathological and peri-operative parameters were collected such as tumour stage, tumor size, lymph node involvement, operative time, and blood loss. Characteristics of postoperative complications and recovery outcome were evaluated.

Results: Postoperative complications and delayed recovery were related to higher stages of the tumor, tumor size, lymph nodes, longer operating time, and blood loss.

Conclusion: Pre- and peri-operative factors can be useful in predicting postoperative outcomes following MRM. It might be possible to determine early in the process who is a high risk patient and help the surgeon develop their plan and treatment accordingly.