In this editorial, we have analyzed the historical evolution of rectal and breast cancer surgery, focusing on the progressive reduction of demolitive approaches and the increasing use of more conservative strategies, accompanied by a growing emphasis on perioperative treatments aimed at enhancing surgical outcomes. All of these changes have been made possible due to an increased awareness and understanding of oncological diseases and improved perioperative treatments.
Keywords: Breast surgery; Conservative surgery; Demolitive treatment; History; Rectal cancer.
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