Microwave Imaging in Breast Cancer - Results from the First-In-Human Clinical Investigation of the Wavelia System

Rationale and Objectives: Microwave Breast Imaging (MBI) is an emerging non-ionising technology with the potential to detect breast pathology. The investigational device considered in this article is a low-power electromagnetic wave MBI prototype that demonstrated the ability to detect dielectric contrast between tumour phantoms and synthetic fibroglandular tissue in preclinical studies. Herein, we evaluate the MBI system in the clinical setting. The capacity of the MBI system to detect and localise breast tumours in addition to benign breast pathology is assessed. Secondly, the safety profile and patient experience of this device is established. Materials and Methods: Female patients were recruited from the symptomatic unit to 1 of 3 groups: Biopsy-proven breast cancers (Group-1), unaspirated cysts (Group-2) and biopsy-proven benign breast lesions (Group-3). Breast Density was determined by Volpara VDM (Volumetric Density Measurement) Software. MBI, radiological, pathological and histological findings were reviewed. Subjects were surveyed to assess patient experience. Results: A total of 25 patients underwent MBI. 24 of these were included in final data analysis (11 Group-1, 8 Group-2 and 5 Group-3). The MBI system detected and localised 12 of 13 benign breast lesions, and 9 out of the 11 breast cancers. This included 1 case of a radio-graphically occult invasive lobular cancer. No device related adverse events were recorded. 92% (n = 23) of women reported that they would recommend MBI imaging to other women. Conclusion: The MBI system detected and localized the majority of breast lesions. This modality may have the potential to offer a noninvasive, non-ionizing and painless adjunct to breast cancer diagnosis. Further larger studies are required to validate the findings of this study.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the clinical application of a low-power electromagnetic wave microwave breast imaging (MBI) system. The results showed that the MBI system was able to detect and localize the majority of breast lesions, including benign lesions and breast cancer. Patients reported a positive experience with the system, and no device-related adverse events were recorded. This study suggests that the MBI system has the potential to serve as a noninvasive, non-ionizing, and painless adjunct to breast cancer diagnosis.