[Cryotherapy of rectal tumors in the elderly patient]

Until now 29 patients (older than 70 years of age) have been treated by cryotherapy for a rectal carcinoma. In 8 patients the tumour disappeared while in 14 good palliation was achieved. Small tumours of the rectal wall can be treated curatively by cryotherapy. In larger tumours local symptoms can be diminished avoiding a permanent colostomy. Complications due to cryotherapy are rare.