Oncology surgical intervention uses surgical procedures to diagnose, treat, or manage cancer. It usually entails removing tumors or affected tissues from the body. Cryoablation is an ablation procedure that employs extremely low temperatures to damage unwanted cells.
Although the practice can be traced back to the 19th century, modern technology, like the technology built by industry leaders such as IceCure Medical, has significantly improved the procedure’s effectiveness.
Risk Factors Generally Associated with Surgical Interventions
It is common knowledge for anyone that has ever received a surgical intervention that distinct risks are involved in some procedures more than others. Here are some common risk factors of receiving any surgery.
Possible Infection
Any break in the skin, such as an incision made during surgery, can provide a gateway for bacteria to enter the body and cause infection. The risk of infection is often higher for certain types of surgery.
Delayed or Poor Wound Healing
The body’s natural ability to heal wounds can be impaired by smoking, obesity, diabetes, and poor nutrition. The risk of delayed or poor wound healing is also higher for certain types of surgery, such as surgery on the lower extremities.
Pain and Discomfort
Pain is a normal part of the healing process after any medical procedure. There are pain benefits to Cryoablation over traditional surgery, in any case. The risk of pain is much higher for surgical interventions.
Extended Recovery Periods
The time it takes to recover from surgery depends on the type of surgical treatment and the patient’s health. However, some people may need to stay in the hospital for several days after surgery, and others may need weeks or even months to recover fully.
Cosmetic and Psychological Effects
Some types of surgery can significantly impact the patient’s physical appearance. This can be a source of stress and anxiety for some patients, even leading to post-traumatic stress disorder.
The Benefits of Cryoablation Over Surgical Intervention
Minimally Invasive
Large incisions or stitches are not required for Cryoablation, as it is a minimally invasive procedure. This makes Cryoablation a good option for unsuitable candidates for surgery or those who prefer a less invasive treatment.
Preservation of Organ Function
Only Isolated diseased tissue is destroyed by Cryoablation while the surrounding healthy tissue is preserved. This is essential for organs such as the liver, kidney, and heart, where avoiding damage to healthy tissue is vital.
Suitability for High-risk Patients
Cryoablation is an excellent option for high-risk patients, such as the elderly or those with other medical conditions that make surgery more dangerous.
Outpatient or Short Hospital Stays
Outpatient cryoablation is often possible, allowing patients to go home the same day. This is a significant advantage over surgical intervention, which usually requires a more extended hospital stay. Cryoablation can be done under local anesthesia, meaning the patient can be awake during the procedure but not feel any pain. The latter can be a significant advantage for people who experience adverse reactions to general anesthesia.
Reduced Complications
Cryoablation is associated with a lower risk of complications than surgery. This is because it is a minimally invasive procedure not involving cutting into large areas through the skin and other tissues.
Faster Recovery
Patients who undergo the Cryoablation procedure recover quicker than those who undergo surgery. This is because there is significantly less tissue damage and inflammation associated with Cryoablation than surgery. Furthermore, Cryoablation does not usually cause scarring, a significant advantage over surgical intervention.
Repeatable Procedures
Cryoablation can be repeated if necessary. This is important for treating conditions that are difficult to control with other treatments.
Combination with Other Therapies
Cryoablation can be combined with other therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This can improve the chances of a successful outcome.
Cost-effectiveness
The cost efficacy of Cryoablation often exceeds that of other treatment options, such as surgical intervention.
Conclusion
Cryoablation is an efficient and secure choice for treatment for various conditions, including kidney cancer and pain palliation for metastatic cancer. Clinical studies show promising interim results in the use of cryoablation to treat early-stage breast cancer. It is an excellent option for patients who do not make good surgical candidates or prefer less invasive treatments. However, it is vital to note that talking to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of both cryoablation and surgical oncological interventions is essential.
