Interventional Radiologist, Dr. Stuart Miller, in the CT Suite of Christ Hospital with the Endocare™ Cryoblation Therapy device.
The minimally invasive Endocare™ Cryoablation Therapy procedure uses extremely cold temperatures to destroy cancerous tissue or relieve areas of pain.
Christ Hospital is excited to announce that Interventional Radiologist, Dr. Stuart Miller, performed the first Endocare™ Cryoablation Therapy in Hudson County earlier this week. This procedure uses advanced argon gas technology and ice to destroy cancerous tissues or relieve pain in a patient — without the need for major surgery.
Dramatic advancements in medical technology now make it possible to perform many diagnostic and therapeutic procedures using minimally-invasive techniques. Minimally-invasive procedures allow physicians access to the internal organs without the customary large incision. Cryoablation therapy is a minimally-invasive procedure used to treat tumors and other lesions of the prostate, kidney, liver, and other organs. The procedure is used in patients with small renal tumors whose cancer has not spread to distant sites. Cryoablation therapy is also an option when maximum preservation of renal function is especially important, for example in patients with a solitary kidney or whose renal function is compromised.
Utilization of cryoablation therapy for the treatment of small tumors has increased dramatically in recent years. This is because interventional radiologists can perform procedures with greater precision. The technique utilizes an innovative imaging system with the combination of smaller probes which offer greater control of the process to preserve healthy cells.
Dr. Miller performs this procedure in the CT imaging suite of Christ Hospital. Depending on the patient’s individual needs, they are placed under either general or local anesthesia for the procedure.
The procedure involves the insertion of a long, thin probe directly into the treatment area. Argon gas is delivered through the probe and an “ice ball” is created. Cancerous cells and those just around the outside of the tumor are destroyed by several freeze and thaw cycles.
Cryoablation therapy allows us to offer patients an alternative to avoid major surgery. For most patients, they are able to go home the next day, report minimal pain, and experience fewer complications,” states Dr. Miller.
For more information about the cryoablation therapy, please contact Christ Hospital at 201.795.8363.