Cryotherapy for Prostate Cancer

In the early 1990's, a new treatment for prostate cancer called cryosurgery emerged. Today, this treatment more aptly is referred to as "cryotherapy". The goal of cryotherapy is to eradicate prostate cancer by freezing the prostate gland.

After receiving anesthesia, the doctor inserts needles into the prostate gland through the perineum, the area between the scrotum and anus. The needles produce very cold temperatures. Freezing destroys the entire prostate, including any cancerous tissue within it.

Cryotherapy uses ultra-thin needles to produce ice balls of extreme sub-zero temperatures. The doctor uses ultrasound to accurately guide insertion of the needles, precisely control the size and shape of the ice balls and monitor the freezing.

Cryotherapy is an option for prostate cancer patients who want to avoid major surgery or the risks of "watchful waiting." Cryotherapy can treat prostate cancer patients in the intermediate and high risk groups as well as those who have failed previous radiation treatment.

Recent publications showing 10-year data demonstrates safety and durable efficacy of cryotherapy for treating prostate cancer. Morbidity following the procedure is mild in comparison with other treatments, with the exception of sexual function impairment.

Cryotherapy for prostate cancer can be repeated, and it can also be used as a secondary treatment when other primary treatments fail.