As the majority of breast cancers present as small non-palpable lesions, alternatives for surgical lumpectomy come into consideration. Breast tumor ablation without surgical excision may be a less morbid procedure without sacrificing cancer control. Cryosurgery is one of several ablative options for the treatment of small unifocal breast cancer. The potential advantages include avoidance of a surgical procedure, less overall discomfort, improved cosmesis, quicker recovery and the prospect of overall cost benefits. Clinical experience in 29 patients is reviewed demonstrating effectiveness in properly chosen patients. A comparison of ablation methods is discussed. Finally, future research of the role of cryosurgery in the management of breast cancer is described.

Key words: Breast cancer, Ablation, Cryoablation, Cryosurgery, Cryotherapy, Minimally invasive treatment, Lumpectomy, Breast ultrasound, Cryo-assisted lumpectomy, Mammosite, Partial breast irradiation.