What is Cryoablation?

Cryoablation is a minimally invasive treatment method that destroys tumors by exposing them to extremely cold temperatures. The word "cryo" means "cold" in Greek. In this method, a thin needle-like probe (cryoprobe) is placed inside the tumor, reaching temperatures between -40°C and -170°C through argon gas or liquid nitrogen. The resulting ice crystals destroy cancer cells and lead to cell death.

Cryoablation in breast cancer treatment is increasingly becoming a preferred method, especially for small-sized tumors. This procedure, performed under ultrasound or MRI guidance, leaves much less scarring compared to traditional surgery, and the patient's recovery period is quite short.

How is Cryoablation Applied in Breast Cancer?

The cryoablation procedure consists of several stages and can generally be performed as an outpatient procedure. The procedure takes an average of 30-60 minutes.

Preparation Phase

Regional anesthesia is applied before the procedure. Using imaging guidance (ultrasound or MRI), the exact location of the tumor is determined. The skin is cleaned and a sterile environment is prepared.

Application Phase

Under imaging guidance, a thin cryoprobe is passed through the skin and placed directly inside the tumor. The probe tip is rapidly cooled using argon gas, creating an "ice ball" around the tumor. This process is typically repeated in several cycles: freeze – thaw – freeze.

Post-Procedure

After the probe is removed, a small adhesive bandage is sufficient. The patient can be discharged the same day. Mild pain or tenderness may be felt for a few days; this is usually controlled with simple pain relievers.

Advantages of Cryoablation

• Non-surgical method: No general anesthesia needed, no incisions made.
• Short recovery time: Patient can return home the same day.
• Minimal scarring: Unlike surgical scars, only a very small entry point remains.
• Preservation of breast tissue: Surrounding healthy tissue is not damaged.
• Low complication risk: Infection and bleeding risks are quite low.
• Aesthetic results: Breast shape and appearance are largely preserved.
• Can be performed under local anesthesia: Avoids general anesthesia risks.

Who Are Candidates for Cryoablation?

Cryoablation is not suitable for every breast cancer patient. Suitable candidate criteria can be summarized as follows:

Patients with tumor size generally 1.5 cm or smaller see the highest benefit from this treatment. The tumor must be clearly visualized on ultrasound or MRI. Patients diagnosed with single-focus (unifocal) early-stage breast cancer are better candidates for this method. Elderly or medically high-risk patients for general surgery can also benefit from cryoablation. Patients with benign breast tumors like fibroadenomas can also be successfully treated with this method.

The final decision should be made by an experienced radiology specialist based on the tumor's characteristics, the patient's general health status, and preferences.

Cryoablation and Conventional Surgery Comparison

Conventional lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) has been the gold standard for early-stage breast cancer treatment for many years. However, cryoablation offers a serious alternative to lumpectomy in certain patient groups.

Conventional surgery requires anesthesia and recovery takes weeks. In contrast, cryoablation is performed under local anesthesia and the patient returns to normal the same day. There is no surgical scar formation and breast aesthetics are largely preserved. Additionally, cryoablation, through its positive effects on the immune system (immune response activation), can strengthen systemic immunity against the tumor.

Scientific Evidence and Clinical Studies

Recent clinical studies published in recent years show promising results of cryoablation in early-stage breast cancer. Large-scale research such as the ICE3 study demonstrates that cryoablation's local recurrence rates are comparable to those of surgery.

The American College of Radiology (ACR) and the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) support minimally invasive tumor ablation techniques and encourage research in this field. Increasingly, more interventional radiology centers in Turkey are implementing this technique.

Cryoablation at Dr. Atasoy Clinic

Dr. Atasoy, one of Turkey's leading interventional radiologists, has extensive experience in minimally invasive treatment of breast diseases. At our clinic, cryoablation treatment is carefully applied with the latest imaging technologies.

Individual evaluation is performed for each patient; taking into account the tumor's size, localization, and the patient's general health status, the most appropriate treatment plan is developed. Our patients receive comprehensive information before the procedure and close follow-up after the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cryoablation painful?
Since the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Mild pain may be present for a few days afterward.

When can I return to normal after cryoablation?
Most patients return home on the day of the procedure and can return to daily activities within 1-2 days.

Does cryoablation completely destroy cancer cells?
In appropriately selected patients, cryoablation can completely destroy the tumor. However, treatment results may vary depending on tumor characteristics and close follow-up is required.

Is it covered by insurance?
Coverage in Turkey may vary depending on the insurance company and policy. Our Clinic can assist you with this.

Conclusion

Cryoablation offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option for treatment of early-stage breast cancer and benign breast tumors. With its non-surgical nature, short recovery time, and high patient comfort, it constitutes a valuable alternative to conventional surgical methods.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer or a breast tumor and would like information about minimally invasive treatment options, you can contact Dr. Atasoy Clinic. Our expert team will guide you on the most appropriate treatment option for you.