Doctors at Istanbul University’s Oncology Institute have successfully treated four breast cancer patients using cryoablation, a minimally invasive technique that freezes tumors to destroy them without surgery. This development offers a non-surgical alternative for patients with early-stage breast cancer, particularly those unable to undergo conventional operations due to age or underlying health conditions.
How Does Cryoablation Destroy Cancer Cells?
Cryoablation targets cancerous tissue by inserting a thin needle directly into the tumor under local anesthesia. According to Dr. Inci Kızıldağ Yırgın, who led the procedures at the institute, the process cools the tissue to temperatures as low as minus 170 degrees Celsius (minus 274 degrees Fahrenheit). This extreme cold effectively destroys the targeted cancer cells. The procedure typically lasts between 45 minutes and one hour, and patients remain fully conscious throughout the treatment, according to Dr. Berkay Kılıç, a general surgeon at the institute.
Cryoablation is currently prioritized for patients over 60 with tumors smaller than 1.5 centimeters, especially those with comorbidities like uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension that make traditional surgery high-risk.
What Are the Primary Advantages Over Traditional Surgery?
The shift toward cryoablation provides several distinct clinical advantages for specific patient demographics. Dr. Yırgın notes that the technique preserves breast tissue, eliminates the risk of surgical scarring, and allows for a faster return to daily activities. Because the procedure does not require general anesthesia, it is safer for patients with heart conditions or those who rely on blood-thinning medications. According to data cited by Dr. Yırgın, worldwide studies indicate success rates for this method range between 97% and 98%, making it a viable alternative to standard surgical resection.
Who Is a Candidate for Non-Surgical Breast Cancer Treatment?
Not every patient is a candidate for this freezing technique. Dr. Kılıç states that the procedure is most effective for patients with hormone-sensitive breast cancer that has not yet spread to the underarm lymph nodes. By avoiding the trauma of a traditional operating room, patients with chronic lung diseases or other surgical contraindications can receive effective care. Following the procedure, patients are monitored by oncology specialists to determine if additional treatments, such as radiation or medication, are necessary based on their specific case.
Comparison: Traditional Surgery vs. Cryoablation
| Feature | Traditional Surgery | Cryoablation |
|---|---|---|
| Anesthesia | General | Local |
| Tissue Impact | Excision | Preservation |
| Recovery | Hospital stay required | Same-day discharge |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is cryoablation painful? According to Dr. Kılıç, the procedure involves minimal discomfort, and patients remain awake and able to communicate with the medical team throughout the process.
- How long does the recovery take? Patients are typically discharged on the same day as the procedure and can resume daily activities quickly.
- Is this treatment suitable for all breast cancers? No. It is currently intended for early-stage, hormone-sensitive tumors smaller than 1.5 centimeters in specific patient groups.
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