Complications after cryosurgery with new miniature cryoprobes in long hollow bones: An animal trial
Frank Popken1, Peter Meschede1, Heike Erberich2 , Timmo Koy1 , Marfalda Bosse3 , Jürgen H Fischer3 and Peer Eysel1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cologne, Josef-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931 Cologne, Germany
2Institute of Pathology, University of Cologne, Josef-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931 Cologne, Germany
3Institute of Experimental Medicine, University of Cologne, Robert-Koch-Str. 10, 50931 Köln, Germany
BMC Surgery 2005,
5:17. [Open Access]
Abstract
Background
In vitro studies show that new miniature cryoprobes are suitable for
cryoablation of bone tissue. The aim of this animal trial on 24 sheep
was to examine the perioperative complications, particularly the danger
of embolism, of cryoablation when using miniature cryoprobes.
Methods
Cryoablations with 2 freeze-thaw cycles each were carried out in the
epiphysis of the right tibia and the metaphysis of the left femur.
Pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and central venous pressure (CVP) were
measured. Throughout the intra- and perioperative phase, heart rate and
oxygen saturation by pulse oxymetry, blood gas and electrolytes were
monitored regularly. Postoperative complications were examined up to 24
weeks postoperativ.
Results
As result, no significant increase of PAP, CVP or heart rate were observed. Blood gases were unremarkable, with pO2 and pCO2 remaining
constant throughout the operation. Regarding pH, standard bicarbonate
and base excess, only a non-significant shift towards a slight acidosis
was seen. There was a mean hemoglobin decrease of 0.5 g/dl. One animal
showed postoperative wound infection and wound edge necrosis. No major
peri- and postoperative complications associated with cryosurgery of
bone were observed, especially regarding clinically relevant pulmonary
embolism.
Conclusion
Surgery with new types of miniature cryoprobes appears to be a safe
alternative to or a complement to conventional resection of abnormal
bone tissue.
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