Radiofrequency Ablation for Early Breast Cancer in Japan
Shin Takayama
In December 2023, radiofrequency ablation for early-stage breast cancer became covered by insurance in Japan, based on the short-term results of the “Radiofrequency ablation therapy for early breast cancer as local therapy：RAFAELO study” which began in 2013. Invasive or non-invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast with a tumor diameter of 15 mm or less is eligible. The standard treatment is surgical treatment, but for patients with early-stage breast cancer, this means that a non-surgical option has been added. Our mission is to expand the use of radiofrequency ablation therapy safely and securely under medical insurance in Japan. It is hoped that radiofrequency ablation therapy for early-stage breast cancer will spread not only in Japan but also throughout the world in future.
