Cryoablation therapy-induced changes

Definition

• Cryosurgical ablation refers to rapid deep freezing of the prostate gland.

• Multiple cryoprobe needles filled with circulating liquid nitrogen transform the prostate into an ice ball.

• Cryoablation results in substantial tissue destruction and death of benign and malignant cells.

• The flow of liquid nitrogen through the probes is adjusted to create the desired freezing pattern and extent of tissue destruction in the prostate.

• Liquid nitrogen does not come in contact with tissue.

• Given the focal nature of the treatment, the histologic changes are most likely to be confined to the targeted areas.

Clinical features