The Evolution of Breast Cancer Treatment with Cryoablation
Being told you have breast cancer prompts a long list of questions. And selecting a treatment for breast cancer is among the first questions you might have.
Surgery?
Chemotherapy?
These questions and more can create as much fear and stress as they do confusion when you’ve received a breast cancer diagnosis.
Another treatment option to consider
New treatment solutions also invite a variety of questions. But the answers that surround cryoablation for breast cancer deliver much needed hope.
Think of cryoablation as putting your tumor(s) in a deep freeze. Even more is it’s ability to eliminate cancer cells on the spot!
And unlike common surgical procedures for breast cancer, your recovery period with cryoablation can be minutes not months.
Here are the basic
Guided by imaging (ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI), cryoablation inserts a special freezing probe (a type of catheter) through the skin and to the tumor to be treated. 1
Keep in mind that how cryoablation is used will vary from one cancer treatment facility to another.
Inside the breast tumor, the cryoablation device (probe) delivers liquid nitrogen to actually freeze and destroy the cancerous tissue. On the technical side, the freezing process can span six to eight minutes at temperatures of 40 degrees below zero and colder.
The treated area is allowed to thaw for approximately 10 minutes. Then another six to eight minute freeze is applied.
The probe will be removed, the tiny incision is covered and you go home! Start to finish, your cryoablation procedure can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
And in most cases there’s
- No hospital stay
- No sedation
- No scar
- No pain
Follow-up is common every six months during the first five years post treatment. Annual check-ups are sufficient after the initial follow-up period.
Results and advantages worth considering
With cryoablation, several observational studies have demonstrated a higher survival rate among patients with stage IV breast cancer in whom the primary tumor is completely excised at the time of diagnosis. 2
The proven safety and effectiveness of cryoablation for breast cancer treatment is worthy of your questions. A consultation will answer your questions and provide a thorough overview of the procedure for treating your specific condition.
Contact us about cancer treatment solutions including cryoablation for breast cancer. Schedule a consultation to be informed about your non-surgical cancer treatment options.
