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arpie
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2 months ago

Cryoablation & Breast Cancer. FREEZING the tumour via MRI! The treatment of the future?

https://www.facebook.com/watch?v=2233946977028488
Cryoablation for breast cancer is a minimally invasive procedure where extreme cold is used to destroy cancerous cells.  A thin, needle-like probe, guided by imaging like ultrasound, is inserted into the tumor to create a freezing ice ball. This treatment is used for patients who are not good surgical candidates due to age or other health issues, or those who prefer not to have surgery, and is most effective for small, early-stage tumors.
How Cryoablation Works
Imaging and Probe Insertion: A doctor uses imaging, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to locate the tumor.
Freezing the Tumor: A cryoprobe is inserted into the tumor.
Ice Ball Formation: A gas, often liquid nitrogen or argon, is pumped through the probe, creating a ball of ice that freezes and destroys the cancerous cells.
Thawing: The tissue is allowed to thaw naturally, and the dead cancer cells are then cleared by the body's white blood cells. 
Who Is a Candidate? ... (Hmmm Why not ALL patients?)
Poor Surgical Candidates: Patients with significant comorbidities (like heart/lung issues) or advanced age who are not eligible for surgery are good candidates.
Patients Opting Against Surgery: It is a viable option for those who simply choose to avoid traditional surgery.
Small, Early-Stage Tumors: The procedure is most effective for small, unifocal tumors that are visible via ultrasound.
Potential Benefits
Minimally Invasive: It avoids large surgical incisions and often can be performed on an outpatient basis.
Preserves Breast Appearance: Cryoablation can preserve the breast's shape and result in better cosmetic outcomes with only a tiny scar.
Faster Recovery: Patients typically experience a quicker recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
Potential Immune Response: The process of freezing and thawing can increase the presence of tumor-specific proteins, potentially helping the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Things to Consider
Scar Tissue: A small amount of scar tissue will remain at the tumor site, which may form a painless lump that shrinks over time.
Not Always a First Choice: While effective, it's important to remember that it's not a universal breast cancer treatment and is best suited for specific patients and tumor types

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