CRYOABLATION
TECHNOLOGY
History of Cryotherapy
Third Generation Cryotherapy
History
Third Generation Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy underwent a myriad of changes resulting in the development of a third generation of cryosurgical equipment. In the late 1990’s, Galil Medical introduced SeedNet™, a third generation cryotherapy system featuring unique 17-gauge (1.47mm) needles. Based on an advanced gas expansion method (Joule-Thomson principle), this method demonstrated significant improvement in controlling the freezing process.
The SeedNet™ System was specifically designed for prostate ablation and presented an innovative alternative to prostatectomy and radiation treatments. The procedure incorporated the brachytherapy set-up, familiar to many urologists and radiation oncologists, including an insertion template mounted on a stepping device. Free-hand probe placement was eliminated and needles could now be easily guided to the target location within the prostate using an ultrasound image corresponding to the template grid.
The ultra-thin cryoablation needles allowed more precise coverage and more uniform lethal temperature distribution yielding very controlled destruction of tissue during the minimally invasive surgery. In addition, the small diameter enabled percutaneous insertion, resulting in less trauma and quicker recovery for patients. The development of small diameter cryoablation needles and support for monitoring using ultrasound, CT or MRI imaging contributed to the use of third generation cryosurgery (freezing) for a range of cancer treatments.
Galil Medical introduces a new era of cryotherapy.
Developed by Galil Medical, the Presice™ Cryoablation System introduces a new era of minimally invasive cryotherapy with state-of-the-art freezing technology, planning and simulation software, and ergonomic design to provide physicians with the tools necessary to obtain accurate ablation treatment with desired outcomes.
Two innovative developments contribute to the improvement of cryo clinical outcomes. The IceVue™ planning and simulation software creates a preoperative plan, customized for the patient. Multi-point thermal sensors (MTS) record temperatures throughout the tumor to confirm frozen boundaries of the target tissue while controlling impact to collateral tissue.
Over its lengthy history, cryotherapy has been embraced by a wide range of medical specialties, from dermatologists, eye surgeons, gynecologists and general surgeons. Cryosurgery has been used for bone tumors for many years, while hepatic cryosurgery for either metastatic carcinoma or primary hepatocellular carcinoma, have shown results similar to surgical resection. Areas of current widespread use include a nephron-sparing treatment option for kidney cancer and cryosurgical treatment of prostatic cancer.
Originally used for salvage treatments, particularly after radiation failure, many procedures are now routinely performed as primary treatment for prostate cancer. Because the entire prostate gland is ablated to ensure effective cancer eradication, impotence is often experienced by patients. New clinical studies are underway to evaluate disease-free rates of nerve-sparing procedures.
The techniques used for cryotherapy ablation have evolved dramatically over the years. Today, the increased accuracy of advanced medical devices combined with rising hospital costs, is driving the demand for minimally invasive procedures. This reality presents new opportunities for minimally invasive cryotherapy options and its associated benefits for the patient. |
