[15 years' experiences with cryosurgical treatment of rectal cancer]

The field of cryosurgery in proctology can be seen in therapy of inoperable anal and rectal carcinomas. It is aimed at improving life quality. The role of microcirculation as a factor causing a contrary heating effect can be proved by intravital microscopy. Cryodestruction is limited by this factor. By means Of measurements of temperature we know the boundaries of complete tissue destruction which is reached in a distance of 4-8 mm. Our own number of cases consists of 122 patients with a mean age of 72 years.