What is prostate cryosurgery?
A. Prostate cryosurgery, also called cryoablation, cryotherapy or cryo, is a surgical technique that involves the controlled freezing of the prostate gland to destroy cancerous cells. This is a minimally invasive procedure. It is done by inserting specialized needles called “cryoprobes” into the prostate through the perineum, the area between the scrotum and the anus without making incisions. After the cryoprobes are inserted, freezing of the prostate gland is performed by using Argon gas. The process is monitored accurately with the help of a computer. Temperature sensors are also used to monitor the process. The procedure is done under general or spinal anesthesia. It takes about one and a half hours. Patients usually are discharged from the hospital after an overnight stay. This is a one-time procedure with no additional procedures or treatments needed. Q. How does cryosurgery treat cancer? A. It has been well known to physicians that extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, can de
