Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is an excellent alternative to traditional procedures for many patients with localized prostate and kidney cancers. Cryosurgery can be delivered open, percutaneously (through the skin), or laparoscopically.

Cryosurgery is the process of freezing tissue to destroy cancer cells. During the procedure, specially skilled urologists utilize state-of-the-art ultrasound imaging equipment to view the internal organs as narrow cryosurgical probes are inserted into the tumor. These probes freeze the targeted area and destroy the tumor.

Technologically advanced monitoring devices allow physicians to control the temperature of the edges of the freezing to ensure total destruction of the tumor, while surrounding tissue is left unharmed.

Advantages of cryosurgery over traditional surgery include:

• highly effective
• shorter hospital stay, usually overnight
• shorter recovery time
• less blood loss
• less time to perform the surgery
• less pain, and subsequently less need for pain medication
• less invasive
• can be an alternative for older people and those who are too fragile to undergo conventional surgery for medical reasons

Although cryosurgery is an effective treatment for many patients, it is not appropriate for everyone. All procedures have certain indications, and problems associated with cryosurgery are relatively minimal compared to other treatments. Consult with your physician to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.