Focal Cryotherapy for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer affects millions of men globally, but medical advances like cryotherapy offer effective, minimally invasive treatment options. In this article, we’ll explore how cryotherapy works, who it’s best for, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
At Maiden Lane Medical in Manhattan, NY, we offer leading-edge prostate cancer treatments, including cryotherapy using the Smartblate procedure. If you’ve received a prostate cancer diagnosis, contact us today to explore your options with our expert urology team.

What is Cryotherapy for Prostate Cancer?
Cryotherapy for prostate cancer (also known as cryosurgery or cryoablation) involves using extreme cold to destroy cancer cells in the prostate gland. It’s a targeted, minimally invasive procedure designed to preserve as much healthy prostate tissue as possible while eliminating prostate cancer cells.
This form of prostate cancer treatment is particularly valuable for patients with localized or early-stage prostate cancer and for those seeking alternatives to radiation therapy or surgery.
What Happens During Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is performed using small, needle-like probes inserted into the prostate gland. These probes are guided into place using advanced imaging, typically via transrectal ultrasound. A freezing gas such as argon is used to form ice balls around the prostate tissue, destroying the cancer cells.
A warming catheter is inserted into the urethra during the procedure to protect it from freezing damage. Most treatments involve two freeze-thaw cycles to maximize cancer cell destruction. The procedure usually takes less than 45 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia with the patient’s choice to add on “laughing gas.”
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When Cryosurgery is Used to Treat Prostate Cancer
Cryosurgery is typically used in the following scenarios:
- Early-stage prostate cancer: When the cancer is confined to the prostate and has not spread.
- Recurrent cancer: When cancer returns after radiation therapy.
- Focal therapy: When only specific areas of the prostate are cancerous, allowing treatment that spares the rest of the prostate gland.
This makes cryotherapy a good option for patients with localized prostate cancer or those not suitable for or interested in undergoing more invasive procedures.
Who Can Have Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is most effective for men with:
- Localised prostate cancer or early-stage prostate cancer
- A recurrence of cancer after previous prostate cancer treatment such as radiation
- Prostate cancer that hasn’t spread beyond the prostate gland (not suitable for widely metastatic cases)
- Conditions that make them ineligible for surgery or long-term hormone therapy
Each patient is assessed individually based on cancer stage, prostate size, overall health, and treatment goals.
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After Cryotherapy Treatment
Recovery from cryotherapy is generally quick. Patients go home the same day, after a short recovery period after the procedure. A catheter is left in place for about 5-7 days to help with urination while swelling subsides.
Side effects such as mild pain, swelling, or blood in the urine are common in the days following treatment. Your urologist will schedule follow-ups to monitor your PSA levels and ensure the cancer cells have been effectively treated.
For optimal outcomes, Maiden Lane Medical integrates advanced imaging and post-treatment follow-up care to ensure thorough recovery and monitoring.
Benefits and Side Effects of Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy for prostate cancer offers many benefits but also carries certain risks that patients should understand before deciding on treatment.
Benefits of Cryotherapy
The benefits of cryotherapy include the following:
- Minimally invasive: No large incisions; typically quicker recovery than surgery.
- Focal cryotherapy: Allows for targeted treatment of cancerous prostate tissue.
- Repeatable: This can be performed again if necessary.
- Preserves non-cancerous tissue: Especially beneficial for localized cancer.

Side Effects of Cryotherapy
Although generally safe, cryotherapy can cause the following very rare side effects:
- Erectile dysfunction: A common side effect due to potential nerve damage near the prostate.
- Urinary incontinence: Usually temporary but can persist in rare cases.
- Urinary frequency or urgency: Often short-term.
- Rare complications: Such as rectal injury or fistula formation.
Your doctor will help you weigh the potential benefits and risks based on your individual condition.
Advanced Technology & Focalyx Partnership
At Maiden Lane Medical, we use the latest in focal therapy, including SmartBlate cryotherapy in partnership with Focalyx, a leader in fusion imaging and targeted prostate cancer treatment. This combination allows us to treat prostate cancer with unmatched precision.
Fusion biopsy and imaging—integral parts of the Focalyx system—enable us to map the exact location of prostate cancer cells for precise treatment. This collaboration elevates cryotherapy into a powerful tool against localized or locally advanced prostate cancer.
Schedule Your Cryotherapy Consultation Today
At Maiden Lane Medical, we’re proud to offer advanced options like prostate cancer cryotherapy to help our patients maintain quality of life while treating their cancer effectively. With cutting-edge technologies like SmartBlate and our partnership with Focalyx, you receive care tailored to your condition and goals.
Serving Manhattan and the NYC area, our expert urologists are here to help. Call today or schedule your consultation online to learn if cryotherapy is the right treatment for your prostate cancer.
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