Cryotherapy Treatment for Prostate Cancer

The common diagnosis of prostate cancer in men has led to in-depth research and the development of a variety of treatment options. Treatments vary by the severity of the diagnosis and the specific needs of the patient. Cryotherapy treatment for prostate cancer is a non-surgical treatment that can provide treatment to some patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. 

As a urologist’s office in Miami, we feel that providing information on prostate cancer treatments can help individuals make informed decisions about their future. As prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men, we always recommend regular prostate exams for early detection and treatment. 

What Is Cryotherapy Treatment? 

Cryotherapy treatment is the process of using cold temperatures to freeze and kill cancerous cells in and around the prostate. Depending on the patient, cryotherapy may also be used to remove part of the prostate gland affected. It is a less invasive procedure than most surgical options. 

How Effective Is Cryotherapy for Prostate Cancer?

As a newly developed treatment option, cryotherapy is mainly used for specific purposes. Generally, it is not used as the first treatment method unless the patient has been diagnosed with early stages of prostate cancer and cannot receive surgical treatment. 

Cryotherapy can be an effective treatment method for:

• Patients whose cancer has not spread outside of the prostate
• Patients who aren’t well enough to receive radiation or surgery
• Symptom treatment
• For treating patients who have not had successful results with radiation treatment 

What Are the Benefits of Cryotherapy Treatment?

As a less invasive procedure, recovery time for cryotherapy treatment is less than for surgical treatment. It provides treatment with less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and less post-procedure discomfort. Additionally, unlike most surgical options, the treatment can be repeated if necessary. 

Possible Side Effects of Cryotherapy Treatment

As with all treatment options, cryotherapy may result in side effects. In the first few days following the procedure, a patient may find blood in their urine and may experience swelling of the penis or scrotum. 

The procedure may result in erectile dysfunction symptoms for the patient. As erectile dysfunction experts, we provide erectile dysfunction treatments post-procedure if necessary. 

Urinary incontinence may develop; however, it normally resolves itself with time and recovery. 

We monitor symptoms after all procedures to ensure our patients recover fully and provide patient-specific consultations to return your quality of life. 

Prostate Cryotherapy Treatment Recovery 

Patients will normally be able to return home within a day or two of the procedure. For the first week or two, patients will utilize a catheter. Recovery times vary by patient. The catheter, generally, is removed after the first two weeks, with the patient being able to return to most daily activities after one month of recovery. 

After a month, strenuous exercise and exertion should still be avoided unless otherwise told by your specialist. It is important to complete post-procedure checkups with your specialist to evaluate your recovery. 

Scheduling Cryotherapy Treatment

An important part of scheduling cryotherapy treatment for prostate cancer is choosing a urologist that you feel comfortable with. Our urologist, Dr. Edward Gheiler, is one of the best urology specialists in Miami, with over two decades of experience with urological services. 

We specialize in both men’s and women’s urological services, including kidney stone treatment, pelvic floor reconstruction, prostate exams, and more. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our doctor and explore the best treatment options for you.

Related Readings:

When Should You Visit a Urologist for Your Prostate?

What Is a Prostate Exam?