The Added Value of Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Treatment on Breast Recovery Following Aspiration of Breast Abscesses in Lactating Women

Background: Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) may enhance tissue recovery and support breastfeeding post-aspiration. Methods: A total of 60 patients were randomly assigned to either a control group or a treatment group. Fifty-six participants completed the study, with two dropouts per group. The control group received ultrasound-guided aspiration and antibiotics for 3 days, while the treatment group additionally received LIFU therapy. Recovery of tissue structure at the abscess site was assessed. The primary outcome was the recovery time of breast tissue via ultrasound imaging. Secondary outcomes included pain scores, time for disappearance of local induration and abscess cavity, breastfeeding self-efficacy scores, breastfeeding rates, and repeat aspiration rates. Findings: The treatment group exhibited a significantly shorter recovery time for breast tissue compared to the control group. Induration disappearance time was also reduced in the treatment group. Significant differences in pain scores were noted 1 week post-surgery. Breastfeeding self-efficacy scores improved significantly in the treatment group at 2 weeks and 2 months post-surgery. Higher breastfeeding maintenance rates and lower cessation rates were observed in the treatment group. Discussion: The use of LIFU therapy appears to enhance tissue repair and support breastfeeding post-aspiration, offering a promising treatment option for lactating women with breast abscesses. Conclusion: LIFU treatment effectively promotes tissue repair, reduces recovery time, and improves breastfeeding outcomes after breast abscess aspiration. The Clinical Trial registration number: ChiCTR2200060973 (registration date: June 14, 2022). Version Date: 22 May 2025.