Why is cryoablation considered minimally invasive surgery?
Cryoablation is performed using 17-gauge (1.47 mm) needles inserted percutaneously, directly through the skin, with no need for incisions. Long-term data suggests that prostate cryotherapy delivers disease-free rates comparable to radical prostatectomy and radiation, with the benefit of lower rates of incontinence, shorter recovery periods and relatively minimal complications. For small renal carcinoma, cryotherapy is gaining acceptance as an effective alternative to surgery. Intermediate-term outcomes for renal cryotherapy show excellent clinical results, reduced morbidity as well as recovery time compared to other minimally invasive treatment modalities including radiofrequency (RF) ablation and microwave ablation.
