Analysis of Lesion Shrinkage and Factors Influencing Shrinkage Following Radiofrequency Ablation of Breast Nodules: An Observational Study.

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the reduction in ablated lesion volume after ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for benign breast tumors and identify factors associated with shrinkage.

Methods: This retrospective study included 64 patients (244 benign breast tumors) treated with RFA from December 2014 to February 2021. All tumors were biopsy confirmed before ablation. Follow-up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months measured nodule volume changes and recorded complications, with analyses at the individual nodule level.

Results: All patients were discharged within 24h without major events. Grade I pain occurred in two patients (3.13%), with no higher-grade complications observed. The complete ablation rate at 1 month was 98.77% (241/244). At 12 months, lesion volume decreased significantly (p < 0.001), with a mean volume reduction ratio (VRR) of 97.14% and a complete sonographic disappearance rate of 81.97% (200/244). Multiple mixed-effect linear regression showed that lesions with a maximum diameter > 20 mm and an absence of blood vessels within 5 mm of the nodule were significantly associated with a lower 12-month VRR.

Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided RFA is safe and effective for benign breast tumors. Ablated lesions effectively shrink, with nodule size and the presence of blood vessels around the nodules being associated with the 12-month VRR.