Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

What muscles are partially removed during a radical mastectomy for cancer?

1. Pectorals major and minor

2. Latissimus dorsi

3. Rectus abdominis

4. Trapezius

The correct answer is: Pectorals major and minor

During a radical mastectomy for cancer, portions of the pectoralis major and minor muscles are removed along with the breast tissue and lymph nodes in the axillary region. The primary goal of this surgical procedure is to excise malignant tissue while ensuring a broad margin of healthy tissue, which includes these muscles that are situated beneath the breast. The pectoralis major, a large muscle that makes up the bulk of the chest, along with the smaller pectoralis minor, plays a significant role in arm movement and stability. Their removal may impact the cosmetic and functional outcomes for the patient, as these muscles contribute to the overall structure of the chest wall. The other muscles mentioned—latissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis, and trapezius—are not typically involved in this type of surgery. The latissimus dorsi is located in the back and is generally unaffected by mastectomies. The rectus abdominis is a major abdominal muscle, and the trapezius, located in the upper back and neck area, is not involved in breast or chest tissue removal either.