Cryoneurolysis

Cryoneurolysis is a medical procedure that involves the use of cold temperatures to temporarily disable nerves. It is a form of neurolysis, a process that disrupts nerve function, and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, neuropathy, and neuralgia.

Procedure

Cryoneurolysis is performed using a probe that is cooled to extremely low temperatures, typically using liquid nitrogen or argon gas. The probe is inserted through the skin and guided to the target nerve using ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) guidance. Once the probe is in place, it is cooled to a temperature that is sufficient to disrupt the nerve's ability to transmit signals. This results in a temporary loss of function in the nerve, which can provide relief from pain or other symptoms.

Applications

Cryoneurolysis is used in a variety of medical applications. It is often used to treat chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain and postherpetic neuralgia. It can also be used to treat certain types of cancer pain, particularly when other treatments are not effective. In addition, cryoneurolysis can be used to treat certain types of neuromuscular disorders, such as spasticity.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, cryoneurolysis carries some risks. These can include infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding tissues. In addition, there is a risk that the nerve may not fully recover after the procedure, which can result in permanent loss of function. However, these risks are generally low, and the procedure is considered safe for most patients.

See Also

• Neurolysis
• Pain management
• Neuropathic pain