Cryoablation for Cancer

Overview

Mayo Clinic uses cryoablation, also known as percutaneous ablation, to treat hundreds of patients who have kidney tumors or bone cancer pain. This minimally invasive treatment, which has U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, is an option for people who need supportive care, are at high risk for surgical complications or whose tumors cannot be removed by surgery.

How cryoablation works

Cryoablation kills cancer cells by freezing them to subzero temperatures. General anesthesia is usually given during the short treatment session. An insulated thin, wand-like device (cryoprobe) is inserted through your skin and into the tumor. The cryoprobe releases argon gas to freeze and destroy the tumor. Typically, cryoablation creates a zone of tissue destruction about 1.2 to 2 inches (about 3 to 5 centimeters) in size. A radiologist uses imaging techniques such as CT scan or ultrasound to better see the ablation zone, accurately guide the cryoprobe and thus spare healthy tissue.

A tumor can be treated with one treatment session, which typically takes less than three hours. Following the treatment, the dead cells turn into harmless scar tissue. You can expect to remain in the hospital overnight and can usually go home within 24 hours.

Advantages

Cryoablation provides a less invasive alternative to surgery. Cryoablation offers the following advantages:

• Fast recovery
• Minimal hospital stay
• Minimal risk of injury to healthy tissue
• Only a small incision required
• Safe to repeat if cancer reappears
• Typically little or no pain

Cryoablation may not be appropriate for everyone. Your Mayo Clinic doctor will evaluate you and discuss the risks and benefits of cryoablation.

Treatment

Cryoablation is a minimally invasive treatment for people who have kidney pain or pain from cancer that has spread to bone. Learn about types of cryoablation.