Potential new treatment for breast cancer

Scientists in Britain have announced they are on the brink of developing radical treatment for breast cancer that may prevent the need for radiation therapy.

Under the new technique a tumour is surgically removed in a procedure called a lumpectomy, before a metal device the size of a ping pong ball is inserted into the breast.

The device then targets the tumour directly with ionizing radiation for 20 minutes under local anaesthetic, before being removed. Different size spheres can be used depending on the size of the tumour.

Consultant clinical oncologist at University College London Hospitals, Jeffrey Tobias, where the technique is being developed, said: "This new technique involving intra-operative therapy is potentially very exciting. It is a safe technology without any potential side effects of radiation."