What is targeted cryotherapy of the prostate and kidney?  Targeted cryotherapy or cryoblation is a technique that uses argon gas at a very low temperature to freeze and destroy cancer cells.  Using an ultrasound to see into the area, the doctor inserts slender cryoprobes into the cancerous area of the prostate or kidney.  This allows for very specific cells to be destroyed.  A warming device is used to protect nearby tissues from damage. 

Who are good candidates for targeted cryotherapy of the prostate?  This type of treatment is often performed on men who have not responded well to previous radiation therapy.  For these patients, targeted cryotherapy has proven to be effective.  Also good primary treatment for men who are not candidates for surgical treatment or do not desire radiation therapy as primary treatment.

What are the benefits of targeted cryotherapy of the prostate? 

• Excellent results
• A minimally invasive surgery that can be done with a very short hospital stay (usually one day)
• Better recovery and fewer side effects than surgery
• Less risk of infection than surgery or bleeding

What are the risks of targeted cryotherapy?

• Like radical prostate surgery, cryotherapy of the prostate often results in impotence

What are the benefits of targeted cryosurgery of the kidney?

• Targeted cryosurgery of the kidney can destroy cancer while preserving the rest of the kidney