Cryoablation is a revolutionary method for treating diseases such as breast cancer. This technique aims to kill tumor cells by freezing them. It offers a less painful alternative compared to traditional surgical interventions. During the procedure, cold gas or liquid nitrogen is applied to the tumor area via a special probe. As a result, cancer cells are damaged and gradually destroyed. With cryoablation, the patient experiences a rapid recovery through a minimally invasive treatment. Therefore, this method stands out as an important option in breast cancer therapy.
What Is Cryoablation?
Cryoablation attracts attention as an important innovation in breast cancer treatment. This method offers a minimally invasive approach, prioritizing patient comfort. Under local anesthesia, doctors intervene in the tumor area with a small needle. Thanks to the specialized devices used during the procedure, cancerous tissue is cooled:
- By disrupting cell structure at low temperatures, accelerating their death.
- This process ensures effective destruction of tumor cells.
Can Every Breast Cancer Be Treated with Cryoablation?
Cryoablation is frequently used in breast cancer treatment. Studies show that a large portion of breast cancer cases can be treated with this method. However, not every breast cancer case is suitable for cryoablation. Several factors determine the applicability of this treatment:
- Tumor size and location
- Patient’s overall health
- Cancer stage
These factors play a key role in determining treatment options. Smaller, accessible tumors make cryoablation more effective. Additionally, the patient’s general health and cancer spread influence the choice of therapy. While cryoablation is considered a non‑surgical option for many breast cancer patients, it may not be suitable for every case. Patients should discuss their treatment options in detail with their doctors. The patient’s condition and treatment suitability are carefully evaluated during this process.
Which Breast Cancers Can Be Treated with Cryoablation?
The cryoablation method is particularly applicable to breast cancer cases with specific characteristics. Ideal candidates are usually over 50 years old. This treatment is preferred when the cancer is localized to a single focus. Tumor size is an important factor; it should be smaller than 1.5 cm.
- Must be well visualized by ultrasound and MRI.
- Pathology should show low‑grade invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), with DCIS less than 25 %.
- Cancer stage should be T1.
Additionally, cryoablation is recommended for patients who do not wish to undergo surgery or are not surgical candidates due to health risks. In elderly patients or those with other health problems, this method can be an effective alternative.
How Is Cryoablation Treatment Performed?
Cryoablation is considered an effective method for breast cancer treatment. During the procedure, doctors use an ultrasound device to locate the tumor. Then, local anesthesia is administered to numb the skin.
- Ultrasound Guidance: Determines tumor location and size.
- Local Anesthesia: Numbs the entry site and surrounding area.
The needle‑shaped probe is guided to the tumor under ultrasound. The cryoablation system is activated, delivering liquid nitrogen gas through the probe tip. The tumor is rapidly frozen to –185 °C, destroying cancer cells. Dead cells are cleared by the body’s immune system.
- Probe Placement: The specialized needle is directed to the tumor.
- Cryoablation: Liquid nitrogen gas is applied to cancerous tissue.
- Cell Destruction: The tumor is frozen, eliminating cancer cells.
Throughout the treatment, ultrasound continuously monitors the tumor and surrounding tissue. The procedure ends when the probes are removed. Patients can typically return to normal activities shortly after treatment.
How Long Does Tumor Elimination Take?
The intense cold applied to the tumor during cryoablation effectively destroys cancer cells. This is a single‑session treatment lasting about one hour. After the procedure, the body begins to produce healthy cells in place of damaged cancer cells. Initial firmness in the treated area varies depending on tumor size and the patient’s physiological response:
- Firmness usually begins to decrease within a few weeks.
- This process may take longer in some patients.
The time for firmness to subside varies by patient. Regular ultrasound follow‑ups monitor changes in the treated area. Ultrasound allows doctors to assess treatment effectiveness and the patient’s recovery. Each patient’s healing process differs and is tracked via ultrasound.
What Are the Advantages of Cryoablation?
Cryoablation offers significant advantages in breast cancer treatment. Since general anesthesia is not required, it is a safer and more comfortable alternative for patients. Under local anesthesia or mild sedation, patients remain awake during the procedure. Additionally, ultrasound guidance ensures clear visualization of the ablation zone, guaranteeing complete tumor freezing.
- No incisions or sutures, leaving only a minimal skin mark.
- A 3 mm‑diameter needle entry mark on the skin.
- Preserves surrounding healthy breast tissue, reducing cosmetic impact.
Recovery is faster than with traditional methods. After a brief observation period, patients can return to daily life. No hospital stay is required, allowing rapid return to normal activities. These features make cryoablation an effective and patient‑friendly option in breast cancer therapy.
What Is the Post‑Treatment Process?
After cryoablation, breast cancer patients require a carefully planned care process. The doctor’s instructions must be followed precisely. During recovery, patients should adhere to scheduled follow‑up appointments. Home care and hospital stay duration vary depending on treatment effects. Patients may use pain relievers as needed. Medication and rest schedules are determined by the doctor.
- Pain relievers
- Anti‑inflammatory medications
- Care support:
- Family members
- Professional caregivers
Support can speed recovery and improve comfort. Regular follow‑up visits allow close monitoring of the patient’s condition. These visits enable early detection of potential complications. In the post‑treatment period, patients should follow all guidance to protect their health.
Prof. Dr. Özgür Kılıçkesmez graduated from Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty in 1997. He completed his specialization at Istanbul Education and Research Hospital. He received training in interventional radiology and oncology in London. He founded the interventional radiology department at Istanbul Çam and Sakura City Hospital and became a professor in 2020. He holds many international awards and certificates, has over 150 scientific publications, and has been cited more than 1500 times. He is currently working at Medicana Ataköy Hospital.
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