What is Breast fibroadenoma?
Fibroadenomas are non-cancerous (benign) tumors that often appear in breast tissue. Fibroadenomas are often hard, flexible and mobile in the breast. They occur most often in women of childbearing age, although they can occur at any age.
The exact cause of fibroadenoma is not well understood, but hormonal factors, especially estrogen, may play a role in their development. They are usually painless, but some women may feel pain or tenderness in the area.
It is essential that any woman who notices a new lump in her breasts should see a health care professional for appropriate evaluation and diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Breast fibroadenoma
The diagnosis of a breast fibroadenoma typically involves a combination of clinical examination, imaging studies, and sometimes a biopsy.
Clinical examination:
- Breast Self-Examination (BSE): Women are encouraged to perform regular breast self-exams to check for any breast changes or lumps.
- Clinical Breast Examination (CBE): Healthcare providers, such as doctors or nurses, may perform a breast exam to evaluate the size, shape, and characteristics of any lumps.
Imaging studies:
- Mammography: This is an x-ray examination of breast tissue. A mammogram can help determine the presence of a mass and provide information about its characteristics, such as its density.
- Ultrasound: Breast ultrasound is often used to further evaluate breast volume. This can help distinguish fluid-filled cysts from solid masses.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): In some cases, an MRI scan may be recommended, especially if there are concerns about the nature of the tumor.
Biopsy:
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): A thin, hollow needle is used to remove a small sample of tissue from the mass. FNA is often used for easily accessible cysts or tumors.
- Core Needle Biopsy: This type of biopsy is usually performed on solid masses.
- Surgical Biopsy (Excisional Biopsy): In some cases, the entire tumor may be surgically removed for a more complete examination. This is usually reserved for larger or more complex volumes.
The results of these diagnostic tests help determine whether a breast lump is a fibroid or another type of breast disease.
Why Microwave ablation in Breast Fibroadenoma
- Minimally Invasive: Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed using local anesthesia. It involves inserting a small probe into the fibroadenoma under imaging guidance, typically ultrasound, and delivering microwave energy to destroy the targeted tissue.
- Day Care Procedure: Patients can typically go home the same day after the treatment. This can reduce the need for hospitalization and associated costs.
- Quick Recovery Time: Compared to traditional surgery, microwave ablation usually involves a quicker recovery time. Patients may experience minimal discomfort and can typically resume normal activities within a few days.
- Preservation of Breast Tissue: Microwave ablation selectively targets the fibroadenoma while preserving the surrounding healthy breast tissue. This can result in better cosmetic outcomes and minimal scarring compared to surgery.
- Repeatable: In cases where multiple fibroadenomas are present or if the fibroadenoma recurs, microwave ablation can be repeated as needed. This allows for continued management of the condition without the need for additional surgery.
- High Success Rates: Microwave ablation has been shown to have high success rates in effectively treating breast fibroadenomas. Studies have demonstrated significant reduction in fibroadenoma size and improvement in symptoms such as pain or discomfort.
- Minimal Risk of Complications: Microwave ablation is generally considered safe with a low risk of complications. Common side effects may include temporary discomfort, bruising, or swelling at the treatment site, but serious complications are rare.
- Non-ionizing Radiation: Microwave ablation utilizes non-ionizing radiation, which means it does not involve exposure to ionizing radiation such as X-rays. This can be advantageous for patients who require multiple treatments or those who are concerned about radiation exposure.
- Patient Satisfaction: Many patients report high levels of satisfaction with microwave ablation due to its minimally invasive nature, quick recovery, and effective symptom relief.
- For more information consult your near by Intervention Radiologist or us.
