Cryosurgery (cryotherapy) and side effects

In about 30% of patients with inoperable lung cancer the tumour blocks one of the larger airways and obstructs breathing. 

Cryosurgery (the application of extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissue) has been used in the UK for lung cancer since 1986. NICE issued guidelines in 2005 on the use of cryosurgery for malignant endobronchial obstruction in lung cancer see their website for more details

One man interviewed here described cryosurgery, and explained that although cryosurgery could not cure him it had helped him to feel less “wheezy”. He had had cryosurgery five times and described a recent treatment - the time in the ward before the operation and his post-operative recovery.

Although cryosurgery cannot cure him it had helped him to feel less wheezy.

Describes what it is like in the ward before cryosurgery.

Describes his post-operative recovery after cryosurgery.

A woman who had her first treatment in 2002 also recalled her time in hospital. She had three cryosurgery treatments over a few months, which reduced the size of her tumour by 60%. 

Describes her cryosurgery operation.

Complications can occur, as with any surgery, but cryosurgery is usually safe. Possible side effects include a sore throat, temporary voice loss, and difficulty with eating immediately after surgery. Patients may also cough up a bit of blood, and sometimes swelling occurs, which may be uncomfortable and even frightening at first.

Describes the post-operative side effects of cryosurgery.

Describes side effects of cryosurgery.

Several other methods can be used to reopen a blocked airway, including laser therapy (which burns the tumour out of the airway), diathermy resection (see 'Diathermy resection'), and brachytherapy (localised radiation).  

Last reviewed May 2010.

Last updated May 2010.