[Cryosurgery in inoperable rectal cancer]

26 patients suffering from nonresectable adeno-carcinoma of the rectum have been treated since Sept. 1980. The mean age was 72 years. The temperature of the probe tip was -160 degrees C. A closed system with liquid nitrogen was used. In 12 patients there was an indication of systemic inoperability, 13 had an irremovable tumour or metastases. 1 patient refused curative operation. Cryosurgery was aimed at reducing the mass of rectal tumours and preventing colostomy. Colostomy could also be avoided in 12 of 14 patients suffering from stenosing tumours. The advantages of cryotherapy are outpatient treatment, no anaesthesia and minimal complications. Generally, this method will yield good results in palliative treatment of inoperable rectal carcinomata.