Doctors are looking at a method called high-intensity focused ultrasound to treat breast cancer. This process uses sound waves to create heat and destroy cancer cells. It is being compared to traditional surgery like a mastectomy.
In the studies reviewed, about 59% of people still had some tumor left after the heat treatment. When doctors used ultrasound to guide the heat, the amount of remaining tumor was about 71%. When they used MRI to guide the heat, the amount left was about 57%.
The treatment also affects the immune system. People who had the heat therapy showed a higher level of certain immune cells compared to those who had surgery. This change might help the body react better to the cancer.
Safety is also important. Most people felt some pain, and a very small number of people had skin burns. Overall, the procedure is considered a safe option for targeting the tumor area.