Breast cryoablation for management of benign fibroadenomas: A systematic review of the literature.
Review
Overview
abstract
PURPOSE: Breast fibroadenomas are among the most common benign breast lesions in women. While surgical excision remains the standard treatment when intervention is indicated or desired, minimally invasive cryoablation has emerged as a promising alternative. This study systematically evaluates the safety and efficacy of breast cryoablation for fibroadenomas. METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines across three major databases to identify clinical studies evaluating cryoablation for fibroadenomas. Eligible studies were analyzed for patient demographics, lesion characteristics, treatment outcomes, and complications. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. RESULTS: Of the 123 studies identified in preliminary review, 6 were eligible for inclusion. A total of 190 fibroadenomas were studied. There was a low overall risk of bias using the ROBINS-I tool. Mean reduction in volume of fibroadenoma, a measure of cryoablation efficacy, ranged from 78.2 % to 98 %. Multiple studies reported a three-fold decrease in fibroadenoma palpability post-cryoablation. The pooled minor complication rate from cryoablation of fibroadenomas was found to be 6.9 % (95 % CI: 3.1 %-14.8 %). Minor complications included edema, tenderness, and cosmetic changes. No major complications were noted. CONCLUSION: Cryoablation is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment option for breast fibroadenomas, offering durable lesion reduction, favorable cosmetic outcomes, and a low complication rate. While current evidence is encouraging, larger prospective trials with standardized outcomes measures will validate these findings and define the long-term role of cryoablation in benign breast disease management.
