Cryoablation is a medical treatment method. It is especially preferred in cancer treatment. This method freezes and destroys cells by using extremely cold gases. Diseased tissue can be treated without surgical intervention. Thus, cryoablation offers a safer and less invasive alternative. Generally, patients can be discharged on the same day after treatment. This process both increases patient comfort and accelerates recovery. Therefore, cryoablation holds an important place in modern medicine.
Prof. Dr. Özgür KILIÇKESMEZ
Interventional Radiology / Interventional Neuroradiology
What Is Cryoablation?
Cryoablation is a frequently used method in medicine. It is based on freezing tissue and cells with extremely cold liquids or gases. The devices used in this process are called cryoprobes. Various substances are chosen to cool the cryoprobe:
- Liquid nitrogen
- Liquid nitrous oxide
- Compressed argon gas
This method is especially effective in treating serious health issues such as cancer. It targets and destroys cancer cells. It is also used to prevent the progression of precancerous conditions. Cryoablation provides the patient with a less invasive treatment option. Patients can usually return to their normal lives shortly after the procedure.
Why Is Cryoablation Used?
Cryoablation is considered an effective method for treating various health problems. It is based on freezing and destroying diseased tissues, making it applicable in many different cases. It is especially commonly used in the following areas:
In interventional radiology for treating various types of cancer, including:
- Liver cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Bone cancer
- Lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Breast cancer
In dermatology for skin abnormalities, especially:
- Unusual moles
- Warts
- Skin tags
- Actinic keratoses
For heart rhythm disorders such as arrhythmia.
For treating precancerous cervical cells.
What Happens Before Cryoablation?
Preparation before cryoablation is an important process for both the patient and the medical team. As preparation for the treatment day, healthcare professionals may give patients various instructions. First, patients are informed that they must have someone to accompany them home safely after the procedure. If there is any possibility of pregnancy, this must be shared with the doctors. Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may be temporarily stopped with the doctor’s approval.
- Arrange for an accompanying person.
- Inform your doctor if pregnancy is possible.
- Stop blood thinners and similar medications with doctor’s approval.
To reduce infection risk, some medications may be recommended as part of treatment preparation. It is also important for patients to inform the team about allergies or special health conditions. Patients should wear loose, comfortable clothing on the treatment day and leave valuables at home.
- Report allergies and special health conditions.
- Choose loose and comfortable clothing.
- Leave valuables at home.
How Is Cryoablation Performed?
The cryoablation procedure can be performed in a hospital setting. During topical cryoablation, the patient usually wears normal clothing and the procedure can be done during a routine appointment. For more extensive percutaneous or surgical cryoablation, the patient wears a hospital gown in a sterile environment. Anesthesia is administered to manage pain and ensure patient comfort. Anesthesia options include local anesthetics, sedation, or general anesthesia. Before the procedure, the medical team examines the patient or places them on the operating table.
- The main tool used is a needle-like applicator called a cryoprobe.
- The cryoprobe may contain the following cooling agents:
- Liquid nitrogen
- Liquid nitrous oxide
- Compressed argon gas
The radiologist applies the cryoprobe directly to the diseased tissue. Imaging technologies help the doctor locate the correct area during the procedure. The cryoprobe freezes and destroys the targeted tissue. Multiple applications may be needed, and the process can take from a few seconds to several minutes. Surgical cryoablation requires continuous monitoring of the patient’s vital signs—heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and pulse. When cryoablation is complete, the surgeon removes the cryoprobe and closes any incisions made. The entire process can last from a few minutes for skin issues to several hours for open surgical cases.
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What Are the Advantages of Cryoablation?
Cryoablation offers many advantages compared to traditional surgical methods. This treatment is used especially for cancerous cells and skin diseases. Its minimally invasive nature provides numerous benefits for patients. Patients usually can go home the same day. However, in more complex cases, an overnight hospital stay may be required. Some key advantages of cryoablation include:
- Associated with fewer side effects
- Easier recovery process
- Less damage to surrounding tissue
- Lower cost if a single probe is used, though multiple probes increase cost
- Reduces infection risk, making it safer
These advantages make cryoablation a preferred method for many patients. The body naturally eliminates dead cells, making recovery more comfortable and faster. While home rest is usually sufficient after treatment, a hospital stay may be needed for larger incisions or deep tumors.
What Are the Risks of Cryoablation?
Cryoablation is generally considered safe. However, as with any medical intervention, there are potential risks during the procedure. Possible issues in topical or surgical cryoablation include:
- Bleeding
- Anesthesia-related problems such as difficulty waking or nausea
- Damage to surrounding tissues
- Fluid accumulation in nearby organs
- Increased infection risk after skin procedures
- Nerve damage leading to weakness or numbness
These risks may vary depending on the patient’s health and the treated area.
What Is the Post-Treatment Process for Cryoablation?
The recovery process after cryoablation depends on the type of treatment performed. Patients are monitored by their doctors and can resume activities according to recommended timelines.
- Patients who receive topical cryotherapy can return to daily life immediately, requiring the mildest recovery.
- After percutaneous cryosurgery, recovery takes slightly longer; patients typically resume normal activities within one to three days.
- Surgical cryoablation is the most invasive; patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and limit daily activities for seven to ten days.
Cryoablation Prices
Cryoablation prices are influenced by various factors. The hospital’s location directly affects costs. Advanced technology also increases prices. The patient’s health condition and the complexity of the treatment play a significant role. Additionally, the size of the treated area and the duration of the procedure determine the cost. Finally, the doctor’s experience and specialty are important price factors. However, the most crucial factor is tumor volume: a 2 cm mass may require a single probe, whereas larger masses may need 3–4 probes, significantly increasing cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prof. Dr. Özgür Kılıçkesmez graduated from Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty in 1997. He completed his specialization at Istanbul Education and Research Hospital. He received training in interventional radiology and oncology in London. He founded the interventional radiology department at Istanbul Çam and Sakura City Hospital and became a professor in 2020. He holds many international awards and certificates, has over 150 scientific publications, and has been cited more than 1500 times. He is currently working at Medicana Ataköy Hospital.
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