cryoablation
An ablation technique that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal cardiac tissue.
Full Definition
Cryoablation is a catheter-based ablation technique that uses nitrous oxide cooling to create temperatures as low as -80°C at the catheter tip, resulting in cellular destruction through ice crystal formation and membrane disruption. The technique offers several advantages including the ability to create reversible test lesions, reduced pain compared to radiofrequency ablation, and lower risk of thrombus formation. Cryoablation is particularly effective for pulmonary vein isolation using balloon catheters and for ablating areas near critical structures where precise lesion control is essential. The technique has gained popularity for treating atrial fibrillation and certain ventricular arrhythmias.
Usage
Usage note: Write as one word 'cryoablation' not 'cryo-ablation'.
In Context
- "Cryoablation was selected to minimize the risk of phrenic nerve injury during the procedure." — Procedural planning
- "The cryoballoon achieved complete pulmonary vein isolation in a single freeze application." — Technical report