Cryoablation for Tumors: What to Expect at Home

Cryoablation for tumors is a procedure that destroys tumors using a very cold gas. It quickly freezes and thaws the tissue. It's also called cryotherapy or cryosurgery.

Your doctor used a special needle called a probe that is put through the skin and into the tumor. The probe sends cold into the tumor.

After the procedure, the treated area may be tender or sore for a few days. You also may have some bruising and swelling. Take a pain reliever for soreness as suggested by your doctor.

Recovery time will depend on your situation. Your doctor will let you know when you can return to your usual activities.

• Rest when you feel tired.
• Do only light and easy activities for 2 to 3 days or as directed by your doctor.
• Don't drive until your doctor says it is okay.
• Exercise according to your doctor's advice.
• Ask your doctor when you can return to work.

• Your doctor will tell you if and when you can restart your medicines. You will get instructions about taking any new medicines.
• If you stopped taking aspirin or some other blood thinner, your doctor will tell you when to start taking it again.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.

• Take care of your bandage. Keep it clean and dry. Change it as instructed if it gets dirty or wet.
• Keep the surgical area clean and dry. Your doctor will give you bathing instructions.

• Your doctor may give you other instructions after the procedure, depending on your situation.

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).
• You have chest pain, are short of breath, or cough up blood.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
• You have significant bleeding or increased swelling at the incision site.
• You can't pass stool or gas.
• You have trouble or pain while urinating.
• You are sick to your stomach or can't drink fluids.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.
• You have symptoms of a blood clot in your leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
  • Pain in the calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
  • Swelling in the leg or groin.
  • A color change on the leg or groin. The skin may be reddish or purplish.

Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.