What is cryoablation?
Cryoablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. It is commonly used to treat certain types of cancer, irregular heart rhythms, and other conditions. The goal is to freeze and eliminate targeted tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding areas.Who is a candidate for cryoablation?
Candidates for cryoablation are:
• Patients with small tumors in the kidneys, liver, lungs, or prostate.
• Individuals with certain types of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation.
• Those who cannot undergo traditional surgery due to health risks.
• Patients with localized cancer who need a less invasive treatment option.
What to expect during cryoablation?
The following are things to expect from cryoablation:
• The procedure may be performed under local or general anesthesia.
• A thin probe is inserted through the skin or via a catheter, guided by imaging technology.
• The probe delivers extreme cold, freezing and destroying targeted tissue.
• Multiple freeze-thaw cycles may be used for effectiveness.
• The procedure typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on the condition being treated.
What are the risks for cryoablation?
Some risks of cryoablation include:
• Potential bleeding or infection at the insertion site.
• Damage to surrounding healthy tissues or nerves.
• Temporary pain, swelling, or numbness in the treated area.
• Possibility of incomplete treatment, requiring additional procedures.
What does recovery from cryoablation entail?
Recovery from cryoablation could include:
• Most patients can go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
• Mild pain, bruising, or swelling at the treatment site is common.
• Activity restrictions may be needed for a few days to a week.
• Follow-up imaging is often required to assess treatment success.