Prostate Cancer Dedicated Phone Number, CALL: 844-443-8362

FREEZING OF PROSTATE CANCER

Pacific Coast Urology Medical Center of Excellence for Prostate Cancer is one of region’s leaders in cryoablation, a minimally invasive procedure that requires no incision to treat prostate cancer. After many years of development, cryoablation is an effective treatment for prostate cancer with far less risk and potential side effects than radical surgery.

Dr. Robert Pugach is the most experienced urologist in the Western United States in cryoablation procedures. In fact, Dr. Robert Pugach has done more cryoablation procedures than any other urologist in southern California.

HOW DOES CRYOABLATION (CRYOTHERAPY) FOR PROSTATE CANCER WORK?

Cryoablation destroys targeted tissue by freezing specific areas in the prostate. Small needles called cryoprobes, which regulate the freezing and monitor temperatures in the prostate, are inserted into the gland guided by real time ultrasound images.

Argon gas is used in the freezing process and forms an ice ball in the prostate. The target temperature, called “lethal ice” is – 40°C. Even at temperatures above this, cancer cells are killed.

One significant advantage of cryoablation is that, if there is a limited amount of cancer, only part of the prostate may need to be treated. Healthy tissue can be spared. Using this method, called focal cryoablation, there is less chance of post-treatment side effects like ED or urinary incontinence.

WHERE IS CRYOABLATION PERFORMED?

Using the most modern technology and precise ultrasound monitoring, Dr. Robert Pugach performs this procedure in an outpatient surgical facility or at a local surgery center or hospital.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT AFTER CRYOABLATION TREATMENT FOR PROSTATE CANCER?

There is usually no pain after a cryoablation procedure because nerves in and around the prostate are frozen, too. The prostate swells afterwards making normal urination difficult. To allow proper drainage, a small catheter is inserted into the bladder. However, unlike catheters used after radical surgery, which go through the urethra, this one is in a more comfortable position. It is also less prone to infection.

The prostate swelling causes a sensation of fullness in the rectum for the first few days. It then subsides. It is best to refrain from normal activities for the first week. The catheter is usually removed after two weeks. Urination usually returns to normal over the next couple of weeks. Return of erectile function can take up to 18 months.

WHAT RESULTS CAN BE EXPECTED AFTER CRYOABLATION FOR PROSTATE CANCER?

Research confirms that that prostate cryotherapy can result in high cure rates for men with early stage prostate cancer. There is also clinical data that suggests that cryoablation may be more effective than surgery for advanced stage cancers. Dr. Pugach typically performs a PSA test approximately three months after a cryoablation procedure and continues to monitor levels every 3 months to ensure a good, long term result. Once the PSA level has stabilized, exams and blood tests are done every 6 – 12 months.

If you would like to learn more about prostate cancer and minimally invasive procedures to treat prostate cancer, call Pacific Coast Urology Medical Center.  View Patient Testimonials

Contact Pacific Coast Urology Medical Center at 844-443-8362 today!  Don’t delay as a simple prostate examination and blood test may save your life.