Cryoablation Effective for Treating Fibroadenoma

The study results were reported in the June 2004 issue of the Journal of the American College of Surgeons.

Researchers found a median volume reduction of 89%, 12 months following cryoablation treatment of 57 breast fibroadenomas that had an average initial size of 2.1 cm. For those patients whose initial tumor size was less than 2.5 cm., the median volume reduction was 95%, and 86% were nonpalpable at 12 months. Patient satisfaction was 91%. The cryoablation system used in the study was the Visica treatment system of Sanarus Medical, Inc. (Pleasanton, CA, USA).

In the Sanarus procedure, a tumor is quick-frozen while still in the body and is not surgically removed. Surgical removal can result in scarring at the incision site and dimpling of the breast from the removal of the tumor or damage to the duct system. Cryoablation, on the other hand, can be performed in a doctor's office, conserves breast tissue, and visibly reduces scarring. The study showed that no adverse effects were noted on any of the 12-month post-procedural mammograms. Therefore, undergoing cryoablation should not influence future mammogram interpretation. In contrast, surgical excision may leave undesirable mammographic changes up to 50% of the time.

"There is no incision, but only a small puncture site to introduce the Visica probe, similar to a needle biopsy,” explained lead author Cary S. Kaufman. M.D., president of the U.S. National Consortium of Breast Centers. "No sedation or operating room is required and the need for prescription pain killers is rare. This allows the vast majority of patients to return to normal activity the very next day.”




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