Patent ID: 7976538
Filing Date: 2011-07-12
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of treating a fibroadenoma in the breast of a patient, said method comprising: inserting a cryoprobe into the fibroadenoma; operating the cryoprobe for a first cooling period to create an iceball having a −20° C. isotherm defining a volume engulfing the fibroadenoma, said −20° C. isotherm being substantially coincident with an outer margin of the fibroadenoma along an axis of the fibroadenoma; thereafter, without substantial delay, ceasing operation of the cryoprobe for a warming period limited to the time necessary to allow the iceball within the −20° C. isotherm to warm to 0° C. without thawing and allow substantial completion of warming cell death mechanisms; thereafter, without substantial delay, operating the cryoprobe for a second cooling period to create an iceball having a −20° C. isotherm defining a volume engulfing the fibroadenoma, said −20° C. isotherm being substantially coincident with an outer margin of the fibroadenoma along an axis of the fibroadenoma; thereafter, without substantial delay, ceasing cooling operation of the cryoprobe and allowing or causing the cryoprobe to warm, and removing the cryoprobe from the fibroadenoma.