Ultrasound-guided Cryoablation is a new minimally-invasive procedure used to treat non-cancerous breast tumors.
State-of-the-art Technology and Innovation
At Banner University Medical Center we combine state-of-the-art technology and innovation with the expertise of our breast health, pathology and imaging teams to provide compassionate care for all breast-related conditions.
The Banner University Breast Imaging Center is the only facility in the state that uses a new treatment method, called cryoablation, for fibroadenomas. Basically, cryoablation is a treatment process that freezes fibroadenomas (non-cancerous breast tumors) instead of using surgery.
What is a Fibroadenoma?
A fibroadenoma is the most common benign breast tumor. Fibroadenomas are usually found as solitary lumps and can be movable, painless, firm or rubbery in feeling – similar to how breast cancer can feel. Although benign, fibroadenomas may enlarge, cause pain, disfigure the breast or become a source of great anxiety.
To ensure that a breast lump isn’t cancerous, an ultrasound-guided needle biopsy will need to be performed before cryoablation. Once pathology has determined that the lump is a benign fibroadenoma, the tumor can then be treated with cryoablation.
Why use Ultrasound-guided Cryoablation and what does it involve?
Ultrasound-guided cryoablation is a minimally invasive, office-based procedure which is done under a local anesthetic. The whole process takes about 8 – 15 minutes and involves placing a cryoprobe, which is a special needle that contains liquid nitrogen, in the fibroadenoma. The procedure consists of using extreme cold to destroy or ablate the breast tumor. Dr. Borders says, “As the cryoprobe freezes the tissue an ice ball forms around the tumor thereby killing the tumorous cells and within about six months the dead cells are then gradually reabsorbed by the body.”
What are the benefits?
The benefits of this procedure are many - it is minimally-invasive, discomfort after the procedure is slight, the incision is so small (about 3 millimeters) that there is very little if any scarring, since no tissue is removed there is little change in the shape or overall appearance of the breast and most women can go back to work or normal activity on the same day.
For more information contact: Yasbeck Alicea at 520-964-8217