Breast cancer has been and still is one of the most prevalent cancers that affect females, thereby requiring advanced treatment processes. Among these, cryoablation has gained attention as an effective method for managing small breast tumours. This cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure uses extreme cold to freeze and eliminate cancer cells, offering new hope in the fight against breast cancer. Using imaging guidance, a thin, needle-like probe is inserted into the tumour, where it emits argon gas to create an intense cold. Cryoablation offers several advantages, including reduced recovery times, minimal scarring, and the potential to preserve more of the surrounding healthy tissue compared to traditional surgical methods.

What is cryoablation?

Cryoablation, also known as cryotherapy or cryosurgery, is a procedure that entails using extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissues such as tumours.

In breast cancer, cryoablation involves inserting a thin probe into the tumor. The probe then releases a cold gas, freezing the tumour and causing cellular destruction.

Over time, the body naturally reabsorbs the destroyed tissue, leaving minimal scarring.

Benefits of Cryoablation for Breast Cancer

Here are some benefits of cryosurgery to eliminate breast cancer:

Minimally invasive: Cryoablation is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis. Unlike traditional surgery, which involves incisions and longer recovery times, cryoablation offers a quicker recovery with minimal scarring.
Preserve healthy tissue: One of the key advantages of cryoablation is its ability to precisely target and destroy tumours while preserving healthy surrounding breast tissue. This targeted approach helps minimise potential damage to healthy cells.
Reduced side effects: Since cryoablation is a less invasive procedure compared to surgery, patients may experience fewer side effects such as pain, infection, and scarring. This can lead to an improved quality of life during and after treatment.
Shorter treatment time: Cryoablation is typically a shorter procedure compared to surgery, reducing the overall treatment time for patients. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with busy schedules or those seeking a more time-efficient treatment option.
Promising results: This procedure shows promising results, with high rates of tumour destruction and low rates of recurrence. This makes cryoablation a viable option for certain patients with small, early-stage tumours.

Who is suitable for cryoablation?

While cryoablation is promising, not all breast cancer patients are suitable candidates. It is typically recommended for:

Early-stage breast cancer: Particularly for tumours less than 2 cm in size.
Non-invasive or low-risk tumours: Where the cancer has not spread beyond the breast tissue and is less aggressive.
Patient preference: Individuals who prefer a less invasive treatment option are medically eligible.

However, each case is unique, and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider specialising in breast cancer treatment.

Conclusion

Cryoablation represents a significant advancement in breast cancer treatment, offering a less invasive and effective option for patients with small tumors. If the individual is considering treatment for breast cancer, be sure to explore cryoablation as a potential option worth discussing with the healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Cancer Cryoablation

Q. What is cryoablation for breast cancer?
A: Cryoablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy small breast tumours. It's an alternative to surgery for certain early-stage breast cancers.

Q. Does cryoablation shrink tumours?
A: Yes, cryoablation can shrink tumours by freezing them, causing cell death within the umor. This minimally invasive procedure is often used to treat small tumours in various organs, providing an alternative to surgery with fewer side effects and faster recovery times.

Q. How does cryoablation work?
A: During cryoablation, a probe is inserted into the tumour, and liquid nitrogen or argon gas is circulated through the probe to freeze the tumour tissue. This freezing process kills the cancer cells.

Q. What is the success rate of cryoablation for breast cancer?
A: The success rate of cryoablation for breast cancer varies, with studies showing tumour elimination rates of 99%. It's often used for small, early-stage tumours and may offer benefits such as preserving breast tissue and minimal scarring compared to surgery.

Q. What are the disadvantages of cryoablation?
A: Disadvantages of cryoablation include potential damage to surrounding tissues, bone fracture, incomplete tumour elimination in some cases, and the need for follow-up imaging to monitor effectiveness. It may not be suitable for large tumours or those close to critical structures.

References

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11547-024-01769
https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/news/20240405/new-ice-treatment-effective-killing-breast-cancer-tumors