A new method to gently place biopsy needles or treatment electrodes into tissues with high target precision.

We present a new core needle biopsy and treatment electrode precision placement technique which, regardless of needle size, target lesion hardness and elasticity, makes it possible to precisely place an image guided device inside the abnormal tissue. Once inside the abnormal lesion, multiple tissue samples can be collected using a dedicated trocar and collecting system. Our unique "Fourier" driver substitutes the commonly used spring-loaded device or complements the jerky insertion technique used by experienced interventional physicians.

Minimally-invasive treatment of early stage breast cancer: a feasibility study using radiofrequency ablation under local anesthesia.

The objective of this study was to assess efficacy and safety of percutaneous ultrasound (US) guided preferential radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) in early breast carcinoma under local anesthesia and to evaluate a new assessment protocol. Eighteen breast cancer patients were enrolled in order to receive PRFA treatment three weeks prior to resection. Pain assessment was performed using the visual analoge scale.

Feasibility study on the treatment of small breast carcinoma using percutaneous US-guided preferential radiofrequency ablation (PRFA).

The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of percutaneous ultrasound (US) guided preferential radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) of unifocal human invasive breast carcinoma with largest radiological diameters of up to 16 mm. Thirty-three patients were enrolled in a study to be treated prior to scheduled partial mastectomy. A needle-shaped treatment electrode, successively developed in two different sizes, was placed into the center of the lesions using ultrasound guidance.