Cryotherapy, also called cryoablation or cryosurgery, is one of several prostate cancer treatment options available for certain men. The procedure uses extreme cold to destroy prostate tissue containing cancer. For some patients, it may be recommended as an initial treatment. For others, it may be used after radiation therapy if the cancer returns. 

Choosing the right prostate cancer treatment is a personal decision that should be made with your healthcare team. Understanding how cryotherapy works, who it may help, and what recovery involves can help you feel more informed and confident throughout the process.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Chicago (PCFC) is here to support you every step of the way. We provide education, connect patients and families with local resources, and help people throughout the Chicago area better understand their treatment options so they can make informed decisions.

What Is Cryotherapy for Prostate Cancer?

Cryotherapy, or freezing the prostate, is another treatment option for prostate cancer. Using ultrasound guidance, the urologist inserts several thin needles or probes filled with extremely cold gas through the skin into the prostate, which freezes the prostate tissue. Among its benefits, cryotherapy typically results in reduced blood loss and a shorter recovery time.

After the procedure, a suprapubic tube or catheter is often used to rest the bladder for anywhere from several days to two weeks. In some cases, it’s used to drain urine for even longer.

Damage to the nerves and blood vessels around the prostate can cause complications. There is a possible risk of incontinence [roll over definition here] and erectile dysfunction.

Who May Be a Candidate for Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy is not the right prostate cancer treatment for every patient. It is generally considered for men with localized prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate gland. 

Cryotherapy may be considered as an initial treatment for carefully selected patients with localized prostate cancer. Men with low-risk disease may instead be advised to consider active surveillance, depending on their diagnosis, health and preferences.

Others may benefit from cryotherapy after previous radiation therapy if the cancer returns within the prostate. This is known as salvage cryotherapy. 

Before recommending treatment, your healthcare team will carefully evaluate your diagnosis. MRI findings, biopsy results, PSA levels, Gleason score or grade Group, tumor location, and previous prostate treatments all play an important role in determining whether cryotherapy may be appropriate. When cryotherapy is being considered after radiation, additional testing may be needed to confirm that the cancer is confined to the prostate and has not spread elsewhere. 

Your physician will also consider other factors as well. Your age, general health, urinary function, and personal priorities all make a difference. Some men place a higher value on avoiding surgery, while others may prioritize long-term cancer control or preserving quality of life.

What Happens During Cryotherapy? 

Understanding what happens before, during, and after cryotherapy can help you feel more prepared for treatment.

Before Treatment 

Your healthcare team will review your imaging studies and biopsy results to confirm that cryotherapy is an appropriate option. MRI scans often help define the location and extent of the cancer before treatment planning begins. 

Your doctor will also review your current medications. Blood thinners and certain other medications may need to be adjusted before the procedure. You will receive instructions about eating, drinking, and any preparation needed before arriving for treatment.

During the Procedure

Most cryotherapy procedures are performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during treatment.

After anesthesia is administered, the physician uses ultrasound guidance to place several thin cryotherapy probes into the prostate. The exact number of probes depends on the size of the treatment area.

 The probes deliver extremely cold gas that freezes the targeted tissue. Multiple freeze and thaw cycles are commonly performed to maximize destruction of prostate cancer cells.

A warming catheter is typically placed in the urethra throughout the procedure. This helps protect the urethra from freezing while nearby prostate tissue is treated. 

Recovery

Many patients return home the same day, while others may stay overnight, depending on their health and the details of the procedure.

A urinary catheter is usually needed for several days to a few weeks while the prostate heals. Your healthcare team will explain how to care for the catheter and when it can be removed. 

Most men experience some swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort during recovery. These symptoms usually improve over time. 

Recovery timelines vary from person to person. Many patients are able to resume light daily activities within several days, although strenuous activity may need to wait longer.

Follow-up care remains an important part of recovery. Your doctor will schedule regular PSA testing and office visits to monitor your progress and watch for any signs of recurrence.

Risks and Side Effects of Cryotherapy

Like every prostate cancer treatment, cryotherapy has potential side effects. Your experience will depend on factors such as the extent of treatment, your overall health, and whether you have had previous prostate cancer treatments. 

Possible side effects include: 

• Urinary symptoms: Burning during urination, increased urinary frequency, or difficulty emptying the bladder are common during recovery. Blood in urine is common for one to two days post-procedure, or even longer for some. These symptoms often improve as the prostate heals.

• Swelling and discomfort: Mild swelling, bruising, and soreness around the treatment area are common during the first several days after the procedure.

• Erectile dysfunction: Changes in sexual function are one of the most common long-term side effects because the nerves responsible for erections are located close to the prostate. Some men regain function over time, while others continue to experience erectile difficulties. 

• Urinary incontinence: Some men experience temporary or longer-lasting bladder control problems after treatment. Many see improvement during recovery, although additional treatment or rehabilitation may be needed in some cases.

Rare but serious complications also can include infection, urethral blockage or narrowing, and the formation of an abnormal connection between the rectum and urinary tract. Your physician can explain how likely these complications are in your situation.

How Effective Is Cryotherapy?

Many patients ask how successful cryotherapy is for prostate cancer.

The answer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the treatment approach, and whether cryotherapy is being used as an initial treatment or after radiation therapy.

Studies suggest that cryotherapy can control localized prostate cancer in carefully selected patients. However, long-term evidence is less extensive than it is for treatments such as surgery and radiation, particularly for focal cryotherapy.

Researchers continue to study long-term outcomes, particularly for focal cryotherapy. While current evidence is promising for selected patients, additional research will continue to improve our understanding of long-term cancer control and quality-of-life outcomes.

No prostate cancer treatment is equally effective for every patient. Your physician will recommend the approach that best fits your individual diagnosis, health, and treatment goals.

Cryotherapy Compared With Other Prostate Cancer Treatments

Understanding how cryotherapy compares with other options can help you have more informed conversations with your healthcare team.

Cryotherapy vs. Surgery

radical prostatectomy removes the prostate gland through surgery. Cryotherapy destroys prostate tissue without removing the gland. 

Cryotherapy is generally less invasive than surgery and often involves a shorter recovery period. However, surgery may be recommended for patients with certain cancer characteristics or treatment goals.

Both treatments carry potential risks, including urinary and sexual side effects.

Cryotherapy vs. Radiation Therapy

external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy both use radiation to destroy prostate cancer cells. Cryotherapy uses freezing instead of radiation.

Each treatment has unique benefits, possible side effects, and recovery considerations. Previous treatments may also influence which future options remain available if cancer returns.

Your physician can help explain which approach best matches your diagnosis.

Cryotherapy vs. HIFU 

High-intensity focused ultrasound, or HIFU, uses heat generated by focused ultrasound waves to destroy targeted tissue. Cryotherapy uses freezing temperatures instead.

Both treatments can be used as focal therapies in selected patients. Long-term evidence continues to grow for both approaches, and availability may differ depending on where you receive care.

active surveillance vs. Cryotherapy

Not every diagnosis requires immediate treatment.

Men with certain low-risk prostate cancers may be candidates for active surveillance. This approach involves closely monitoring the cancer through regular PSA testing, imaging, and repeat biopsies.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Cryotherapy 

Every appointment is an opportunity to learn more about your diagnosis and treatment options. Bringing questions with you can help you make the most of your visit.

Consider asking:

• Am I a candidate for prostate cancer cryotherapy?
• Would focal or whole-gland cryotherapy be more appropriate for my diagnosis?
• What are the potential benefits and risks of this prostate cancer treatment?
• What side effects should I expect during recovery?
• How long will I need a urinary catheter?
• How will my PSA be monitored after treatment?
• What follow-up appointments will I need?
• If my cancer returns, what treatment options will still be available?

Finding Cryotherapy Resources and Support in the Chicago Area 

Learning about prostate cancer treatment can feel overwhelming. Having access to trusted local resources can make the process easier. 

The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Chicago is committed to helping patients and families throughout every stage of the prostate cancer journey. We provide educational resources that help explain treatment options in clear, understandable language.

PCFC also hosts a monthly prostate cancer support group at Wellness House in Hinsdale. These meetings provide a welcoming place to connect with other men and families who understand the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Whether you have recently been diagnosed, are considering cryotherapy, or are recovering after treatment, you do not have to navigate the experience alone.

Learn more about our support groups and patient resources by connecting with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Chicago today.