Cryoablation of the Prostate in Charleston, SC
The physicians of Lowcountry Urology Clinics of Charleston SC are skilled in treating prostate cancer with cryoablation. We invite referring physicians to consider us for their prostate cancer patients who may benefit from this procedure.
As a service to our referring physicians, Lowcountry Urology Clinics would like to present some basic information on cryoablation of the prostate that you may wish to share with your patients.
Details of the Prostate Cryoablation Procedure
Simply put, “cryo” means freezing. Cryoablation is the controlled freezing of the patient’s prostate gland to destroy cancerous cells. Cryoablation effectively freezes and eliminates cancerous cells and tissues, as well as the blood vessels that feed the cancer.
With the patient anesthetized, the Urologist inserts an ultrasound probe into the rectum. The probe scans and measures the rectum, and a specialized computer program devises a treatment plan. Based on this plan, the Urologist inserts the cryoprobes at predetermined sites within the patient’s prostate. The freezing process begins and the probes, computer and Urologist closely monitor the procedure.
Recovery from the Prostate Cryoablation Procedure
Cryoablation of the Prostate will typically require an overnight stay for observation, with discharge the following day. The Urologist will leave in place a urinary catheter for a few days. There is usually minimal pain, which is often controlled with oral pain meds. Patients may feel fatigue for a few days after the procedure, and may experience swelling in the general pubic/scrotal area. The swelling usually subsides in a couple of weeks or so.
Going forward, the patient will be closely monitored to look for signs of cancer recurrence.
Risks Associated with the Prostate Cryoablation Procedure
Though the prostate cryoablation procedure is safe and well tolerated by most patients, post-op complications can arise, such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. We urge patients to discuss potential complications with their physician.
Choose Lowcountry Urology Clinics for Your Patients
For your patients that require cryoablation of the prostate, Lowcountry Urology Clinics of Charleston SC is a referral you can make with confidence. Contact us today!