Effect of the Type of Cryo Probe on Oncological & Functional Outcomes for Primary Whole Gland Prostate Cryoablation
INTRODUCTION
To compare the effect of the Variable ice cryo probe (V-probe) and the conventional sharp probe on oncological & functional outcomes in men treated with primary whole gland prostate cryoablation.
METHODS
Among 4235 men treated with primary whole gland prostate cryoablation, we identified 1569 men with complete data and known type of cryo probe used. V-probes were used in 335 & sharp probes in 1234 cases. Primary outcomes included biochemical progression-free survival, post-treatment urinary incontinence, urinary retention, erectile dysfunction (ED), and recto-urethral fistulae.
RESULTS
Median age was 71 years (IQR 66-76), median Gleason sum was 7 (IQR 6-7) and median PSA was 6.5 ng/mL (IQR 4.8-9.5). The use of the V- cryo probe was associated with men who were less likely to have clinical stage ≥ T2b disease (15.8% vs 37.8%, p
CONCLUSION
The use of the variable ice cryo probe (V-probe) was associated with an improved success rate of biochemical outcome compared to the sharp probe. The incidence of post-operative erectile dysfunction was lower with the use of the V-probe, however, at the expense of an increased risk of post-operative urinary retention compared to the conventional sharp probe.
Funding: none