📖 What is percutaneous cryoablation?
Cryoablation uses extreme cold (temperatures of −40°C) to destroy tissue. One or more cryoprobes are inserted percutaneously (through the skin) into the target lesion under CT or ultrasound guidance. Freeze–thaw cycles create an "ice ball" that ablates the lesion while sparing surrounding structures.
Key advantage over radiofrequency ablation: the ice ball is clearly visible on CT and ultrasound, enabling precise real-time control of the ablation zone. Cryoablation is preferred near sensitive structures (nerves, bile ducts, ureter) where thermal ablation would carry higher risk.
🎯 Indications
🌸 Abdominal wall endometriosis
World-leading expertise at Cochin AP-HP since 2014 (Pr Dohan). Cryoablation of parietal endometriosis nodules (C-section scar endometriosis). 80–95% efficacy. General anaesthesia.
🦶 Morton's neuroma
CT/ultrasound-guided cryoablation of the intermetatarsal neuroma. Immediate weight-bearing. No scar. Local anaesthesia. 70–85% pain reduction.
🩻 Renal tumours
T1a renal cell carcinoma — cryoablation as alternative to surgery. Preferred near renal collecting system or ureter.
🦴 Bone & soft tissue
Osteoid osteoma (small bone tumours), desmoid tumours, soft tissue masses.