Society of Interventional Oncology Advocates for Cryoablation in Breast Cancer Treatment Guidelines

IceCure Medical Ltd. has been making headlines with its innovative approach to treating breast cancer using cryoablation technology. The company, noted for its minimally-invasive treatment methods, is seeking changes to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines in collaboration with the Society of Interventional Oncology (SIO).

On July 29, 2026, SIO put forward a formal request aiming to include percutaneous cryoablation, using IceCure’s ProSense® system, in the NCCN Breast Cancer Guidelines. The crux of the petition is to recognize cryoablation as a viable treatment alternative for patients with low-risk, early-stage breast cancer, particularly for those aged 70 and older, who may be poor candidates for surgical procedures.

The SIO's request aims specifically to add a new Category 2B treatment option. This would permit cryoablation without surgical excision for patients who have a unifocal, ultrasound-visible invasive ductal carcinoma that measures 1.5 cm or less, is of low grade (1-2), and is hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative. It underscores a patient-centric approach, emphasizing shared decision-making between patients and healthcare providers.

Importantly, the SIO's efforts extend the petition's reach to include patients aged 50 to 69 who either cannot undergo surgery due to health complications or opt against it. The inclusion of these demographics highlights the push for equitable access to advanced treatment modalities, giving them an alternative through cryoablation combined with whole-breast radiation therapy and endocrine therapy.

Supporting this ambitious request is the FDA's marketing authorization of IceCure's ProSense® cryoablation system in October 2025. This device made history as the first to gain FDA approval specifically for low-risk breast cancer treatment in women aged 70 and above, further legitimizing cryoablation's role in breast cancer care. The FDA's clearance confirms its efficacy and safety, paving the way for broader acceptance among medical professionals.

The potential implication of including cryoablation in the NCCN guidelines could mark a pivotal moment in clinical practices related to breast cancer treatment. The recognition by such a prestigious panel not only enhances the visibility of this procedure but also potentially influences future reimbursement discussions, which remain a critical consideration for healthcare providers and patients alike. It could become an essential stepping stone for wider clinical adoption of the procedure, consolidating its place within treatment paradigms.

SIO is dedicated to promoting the field of interventional oncology through initiatives focused primarily on education, research, and advocacy. Their partnership with IceCure underscores a collective effort to push for innovative solutions that prioritize patient outcomes in the cancer care landscape.

The NCCN, an esteemed non-profit alliance comprised of leading cancer centers in the United States, publishes the highly influential NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, which serve as key reference documents for clinicians and healthcare organizations, shaping treatment standards across the spectrum of oncology.

As this potential guideline modification is contemplated, the community awaits a response from the NCCN, and it could be a watershed moment for how low-risk breast cancer is treated, further expanding the horizons of minimally invasive treatment possibilities. IceCure Medical's forward-thinking approach may very well redefine the trajectory of breast cancer care, aligning with advancements in interventional oncology and addressing unmet patient needs effectively.

In conclusion, the SIO's advocacy for the inclusion of cryoablation in the NCCN guidelines not only reflects a commitment to enhancing treatment options for breast cancer patients but also represents a broader mission to integrate innovative therapies into clinical practice, ensuring that the best possible care options are available to all patients, especially the vulnerable who may typically face greater challenges in accessing standard treatment paths.