PROSPECTIVE STUDY OF USE OF ROUND BLOCK TECHNIQUE (DOUGHNUT) FOR BREAST LUMPECTOMY

Introduction The round block technique (RBT) is an established oncoplastic approach that enables wide local excision through a periareolar incision while preserving breast contour and minimizing visible scarring. Its growing use in benign and early malignant breast lesions warrants further evaluation. This study assessed the safety, operative efficiency, postoperative recovery, and cosmetic outcomes of RBT in breast-conserving surgery. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care centre from November 2022 to July 2025. Thirty-six patients with benign breast disease or early breast carcinoma meeting predefined eligibility criteria underwent lumpectomy using the RBT. Clinical characteristics, operative parameters, complications, recovery and cosmetic outcomes were recorded. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results Fibroadenomas and multiple fibroadenomas constituted the most common diagnoses, followed by gynaecomastia and phyllodes tumours. Most lesions measured 3–6 cm and frequently involved multiple quadrants. Intraoperative dissection was generally uncomplicated, with minimal blood loss and a low complication rate. Seroma and hematoma were the most frequent postoperative events, while serious complications were rare. Hospital stay and recovery time were shortest for fibroadenomas and longest for early breast cancer. Cosmetic outcomes were favourable, with over 80% rated excellent or good. Re-interventions were infrequent and limited to seroma aspiration or minor wound correction. Conclusion The round block technique is a safe and effective breast-conserving approach for benign and selected early malignant lesions, offering rapid recovery, low morbidity, and consistently high cosmetic satisfaction. Larger, long-term studies with patient-reported outcomes are recommended.