CRYOBLATION

Freezing for Prostate and Kidney Cancer

After many years development, cryoablation is now being used to treat urological cancers, with far less risk and potential side effects than radical surgery.  While it was initially developed for prostate cancer, it’s safety record and effectiveness have now expanded it use and we are treating some kidney cancers with it, too.  The concept behind cryoablation is to create an ice ball within the prostate (or kidney) to achieve sub-freezing temperature – typically in the - 40°C range – using Argon gas.  When the “lethal ice” temperature is reached, cancer cells (which are more susceptible to cold temperatures than normal, healthy cells) are killed. 

Dr. Robert Pugach, medical director of Pacific Coast Urology Medical Center, is one of the most experienced urologists in Los Angeles and Orange Counties in cryoablation procedures.  Using the most modern technology and precise ultrasound monitoring, he is able to perform this remarkable procedure either in the outpatient area of a hospital or with just an overnight stay.  Patients who have cryoablation procedures experience a rapid return to normal activities, have a much lower complication rate and far less pain than those who have traditional radical surgery.

In addition, Dr. Pugach continues to be a leader in this area by offering "focal" targeted cryoablation and "nerve sparing" cryoablation, which uses freezing of just certain areas in the prostate to minimize side effects and get patients back to a normal lifestyle faster than ever before. 

Listen to Dr. Robert Pugach, Medical Director of Pacific Coast Urology Medical Group, discuss men’s urological problems and treatments. The topics discussed on the audio files include symptoms and treatment options for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), Prostate Cancer, Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversals. Dr. Robert Pugach discusses advanced minimally invasive treatments including Cryoablation and HIFU for prostate cancer. Click here to listen to the audio discussion on the following questions.

Prostate Cancer-Cryoablation

• What is Cryoablation?
• How is it done?
• What are the benefits of cryoablation when compared to surgery or radiation?
• Is there a long period of hospitalization?
• How much pain is there afterwards?
• Who do you consider good candidates for cryoablation?

Would you like to learn more about cryoablation? If you have a question about a service or procedure, please email us or call our office at (888) 735-4336.