Ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation for 755 benign breast lesions: a prospective multicenter study

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Oncology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Benign breast lesions (BBLs) are common, and effective treatment options are sought.
• Microwave ablation (MWA) offers a minimally invasive approach for BBL management.
• Evaluating the clinical efficacy and learning curve of MWA is crucial for its adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the clinical effectiveness of ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) for benign breast lesions (BBLs).
• To compare the learning curves of international radiologists (IRs) and surgeons performing MWA.
• To analyze technical success, complications, lesion regression, and patient satisfaction post-MWA.

Main Methods:

• Prospective enrollment of 440 patients with 755 BBLs across 5 centers (February 2014 - July 2018).
• Evaluation of technical success, complications, volume reduction ratio (VRR), palpability, and cosmetic satisfaction.
• Analysis of ablation time (AT) and energy (AE) relative to the number of procedures for learning curve assessment.

Main Results:

• 100% complete ablation rate achieved for all BBLs, including those near critical structures.
• Median 12-month VRR was 97.9%; 55.9% of lesions became nonpalpable.
• High patient satisfaction (98.4% good/excellent cosmetic, 94.5% minimally invasive satisfaction).
• Ablation time and energy decreased with experience, with IRs showing rapid skill acquisition.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-guided percutaneous MWA is a safe and effective treatment for benign breast lesions.
• The technique demonstrates excellent clinical outcomes and high patient satisfaction.
• Interventional radiologists exhibit a favorable learning curve for mastering MWA procedures.