Cryoablation, Cryobiopsy and Cryotherapy -

Cryoablation, Cryobiopsy and Cryotherapy

Cryoablation is a procedure which helps to destroy abnormal tissues or tumors by freezing them. It’s commonly used in the lungs, airways, kidneys, liver, bones and even for the skin. In lung – related conditions, Cryoablation is performed during bronchoscopy to treat tumors or to remove the unwanted tissue which are inside the airways. It’s a minimally invasive procedure, and the recovery is usually fast.

How is Cryoablation Performed?

Cryoablation uses a special probe that becomes extremely cold by using gases like carbon dioxide or nitrous oxide. This cold temperature helps in freezing the abnormal cells or tissues, causing them to idea. The dead tissues are either removed or naturally breaks down over the time.

Evaluation and Planning: Before the procedure, doctors will perform the tests like CT scan, bronchoscopy, and the blood work. They will check the location and size of the lesion to plan the cryoablation precisely.
Injecting Anesthesia: The process is usually performed under the effect of local anesthesia with sedation, sometimes general anesthesia is also being used, depending on the situation and the area being treated.
Bronchoscopy and Probe Insertion: A bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth of the patient into the airways. Through this, the Cryoprobe (a thin, cold metal stick) is used to get in contact with the abnormal tissue directly.
Freezing the Tissue: The tip of the Cryoprobe then becomes extremely cold. It is placed against the tumor or the lesion for a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on its size. The tissue then freezes and turns white and then dies due to the cold temperature of the Cryoprobe.
Tissue Removal (if needed): The frozen tissue in some cases are pulled out gently using the Cryoprobe itself. On the other hand in some cases, the tissue remains and it gradually gets absorbed or expelled by the body naturally.
Completion and Recovery: The doctors after the procedure checks to ensure that the airway is clear and clean. The bronchoscope is then removed, and the patient is then monitored for a few hours.
Aftercare: You may feel mild throat discomfort or cough for a day or more. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics or cough medicines if needed. Regular follow – ups and repeat bronchoscopies may be needed.

Cryobiopsy

Cryobiopsy is a diagnostic lung procedure which is performed during bronchoscopy to obtain high-quality tissue samples by freezing them with a special cryoprobe. The frozen tissue is then removed in one piece, giving the larger and better-preserved samples than conventional biopsy tools.

Why is Cryobiopsy Needed?

To diagnose interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) such as pulmonary fibrosis.
To detect or rule out lung cancer.
To investigate abnormal findings on chest X-ray or CT scan.
When standard biopsy gives insufficient tissue for diagnosis.

How is Cryobiopsy Performed?

The patient is given anesthesia or deep sedation.
A bronchoscope is passed into the lungs.
A thin cryoprobe is guided to the targeted lung area.
Then the tip is rapidly cooled using compressed CO₂ or N₂O, freezing a small section of lung tissue.
The probe and bronchoscope are removed together, bringing out the frozen tissue.
The tissue is thawed and sent for laboratory analysis.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a treatment technique where extreme cold is applied through a cryoprobe during bronchoscopy to destroy abnormal tissue in the airways. Unlike cryobiopsy, it is done for treatment rather than for diagnosis.

Why is Cryotherapy Needed?

To remove airway tumors (benign or malignant).
To clear the mucus plugs blocking the airway.
To control the bleeding in the airways.
To improve breathing in patients with blocked or narrowed airways.
As palliative treatment in advanced lung cancer.

How is Cryotherapy Performed?

The patient is given anesthesia or sedation.
A bronchoscope is inserted into the airways.
The cryoprobe is placed in contact with abnormal tissue.
Rapid freezing destroys the targeted cells.
The dead tissue is removed immediately or allowed to shed naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is cryoablation painful?

No, as it is performed under the effect of anesthesia, so the patient doesn’t feel any kind of pain. A mild coughing or sore throat can happen after the procedure but it recovers soon.

2. How long does cryoablation takes to be performed?

The procedure takes 30-60 minutes, depending upon the location and amount of tissue being treated.

3. What are the risks of cryoablation?

The procedure is generally safe, but in some rare cases, some issues like bleeding, mild airway swelling or infection can happen. These things are managed with the help of medications and follow – up care.

4. Does cryoablation completely cure the problem?

It depends upon the condition as in the benign cases, it can help to fully remove the abnormal tissue. But in the cancer cases, it may be a part of a broader treatment plan to control or shrink the tumor.

5. Will it be painful?

No, it is done under the effect of anesthesia, so you won’t feel anything.

6. How long will I need to stay in the hospital?

Most patients can go home the same day or the next day.

7. Is it better than a normal biopsy?

Yes, it provides larger, more intact samples, improving diagnosis accuracy.

8. What are the risks?

Minor bleeding is common; rarely, lung collapse (pneumothorax) can occur.

9. Does it hurt?

No, it is done under anesthesia, so you won’t feel anything.

10. Is it a cure for cancer?

Usually not a cure but it helps to shrink or remove blockages and improve breathing.

11. How quickly will I feel better?

Many patients notice improvement in breathing right after the procedure.

12. Are there risks?

Mild bleeding or temporary swelling may occur; serious complications are rare.

Cryoablation, Cryobiopsy and Cryotherapy