Cryotherapy for Cancer: Pain Relief and Tumor Treatment
Cryotherapy is a localized treatment that aims to freeze cancer cells. The cold temperature is achieved through the usage of liquid nitrogen or argon gas.
Cryotherapy can be used to treat tumors inside the body as well as those on the skin. This treatment will only damage the cells that are exposed to the cold.
When used to target internal organs, a needle is inserted through the skin directly into the tumor, then a gas that freezes the tissue is pumped through the needle.
A Promising Alternative to Lumpectomy?
The Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) has released data from a 3-year ongoing research study. According to their findings, an easy 1-hour cryoablation procedure could replace lumpectomy surgery!
In this study, a total of 157 patients were treated with cryoablation at different participating centers across the United States. Interim results suggested that Cryoablation of the breast is safe and well-tolerated with a 100% initial procedural success rate.
The overall clinical success rate with at least 6 months follow-up is 99.4%.
Long-term results are also promising. As a comparison, lumpectomy has a 90%- 95% success rate.
While cryotherapy is not yet a standard procedure that is readily available, the good news is that alternative clinics in Mexico offer it now.
Cryotherapy An Alternative Treatment for Prostate Cancer
Benefits of Cryotherapy for Cancer Patients
Pain Relief
Cryotherapy may help relieve pain by reducing inflammation and swelling in affected areas. For cancer patients dealing with joint pain, muscle soreness, or pain from treatments, this can provide natural relief.
Reducing Side Effects of Treatment
Some people use whole-body cryotherapy as a complementary therapy to reduce side effects from cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. It’s thought to reduce fatigue, improve energy levels, and boost overall well-being.
Non-Invasive Tumor Treatment
Unlike traditional surgery, cryotherapy is minimally invasive and requires little recovery time. This makes it appealing for patients who want to avoid the risks and long recovery times associated with surgery.
Boosting Immunity
Cryotherapy is believed by some to stimulate the immune system. By improving circulation and reducing stress on the body, it may help the body fight cancer more effectively.
Cryotherapy offers a more alternative approach for cancer patients looking to manage pain, reduce treatment side effects, and potentially slow tumor growth.
As with any alternative treatment, it’s important to discuss cryotherapy with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s right for your specific situation.
Types of cancer it can treat
- Skin cancers
- Early-stage prostate cancer
- Liver cancer confined to the liver
- Retinoblastoma
- Bone cancer (mostly chondrosarcoma)
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Cervical precancers
Frequently Asked Questions
Cryotherapy is often used to treat conditions such as arthritis, chronic pain, sports injuries, and skin conditions like eczema.
Frequency can vary based on personal needs. Some people may benefit from weekly sessions, while athletes may use cryotherapy more frequently during intense training.
Cryotherapy is generally not considered painful, though the extreme cold may cause discomfort or a tingling sensation during treatment.
Whole-body cryotherapy involves entering a chamber where the entire body is exposed to cold temperatures, while localized cryotherapy targets specific areas for treatment.
Cryotherapy feels like an intense cold, but it is usually well-tolerated due to the short duration of sessions.
