September 19, 2018
By Dr. Barry M. Zisholtz, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Many patients and physicians are aware of the more common treatments for prostate cancer, such as surgical removal of the gland and radiation therapy with or without seed implantation. However, some people have not heard of cryosurgery, a procedure that freezes a growth and destroys the tumor by delivering cold ice to temperatures of minus 40 degrees Celsius (-40 degrees Fahrenheit).
Cryosurgery is a minimally invasive procedure. Many times, it’s preferred to more traditional kinds of surgery because of its minimal pain and scarring.
However, as with any medical treatment, there are risks involved, primarily that of damage to nearby healthy tissue. Damage to nerve tissue is of particular concern. In addition, patients undergoing cryosurgery usually experience redness and minor local pain or discomfort.
While this treatment has been used to treat prostate cancer for over 20 years, it’s a newer technology that has become very safe and effective and almost always performed as an outpatient procedure. Here are the patients this particular surgery will benefit the most:
The procedure is performed in the operation room without any incisions.
Depending upon the size of the prostate, small needles called 6-8 Cryo probes are directed into the prostate using ultrasound guidance. Two freezing cycles are performed and a catheter is left at the end of the procedure for a few days to allow any swelling to resolve.
Post-operative instructions involve ice packs and catheter care, as there is usually not much pain.
Patients are monitored over the months and years with physical exams and PSA blood tests similar to after surgery or radiation therapy.
This is a procedure that can be repeated if needed, especially in a patient who initially had a focal treatment.
If you’re interested to hear more about cryosurgery, contact the expert at Georgia Urology today!
As of February 2021, our Duluth and Douglasville offices have moved locations. Please see below for the new address information.
Georgia Urology’s Dr. Warren Todd Oberle was recently published in the Atlanta Business Chronicle. In his article, Dr. Oberle tackles the latest updates on prostate cancer screening recommendations and offers his expert opinion to those questioning at what age should they receive one. To read the full article, click here.
By Barry M. Zisholtz, M.D. Testicular cancer is a relatively uncommon disease, but, for some unknown reason, the incidence has been increasing over the last 50 years. There are approximately six new cases per 100,000 men in this country, which correlates with approximately 9,910 new cases per year. To help raise your awareness of your […]