How is Cryotherapy performed?
The procedure is performed in the operating room, and the patient receives anesthesia. There is no incision; approx. six needles are inserted into the prostate to freeze the prostate and destroy all prostate cancer cells. During the procedure, the prostate and needle placement are evaluated with ultrasound imaging. Argon and helium gas circulates through the needles providing the doctor with controllable freezing and thawing capability. The temperature within the prostate is lowered to -40°C for several minutes, creating ice balls which kill cancer cells. The patient usually goes home that day and a urethral catheter drains urine into a bag on the thigh for one week.
