Development of a high-performance multiprobe cryosurgical device

The authors describe the design of the first multiprobe cryosurgical system (AccuProbe system). Compared with prior conventional cryosurgical devices, the new system has the following characteristics: 1) generation of subcooled liquid nitrogen, 2) optional use of up to five independently operated and controlled cryoprobes, 3) use of disposable probes of various sizes and shapes, 4) more accurate placement of the cryoprobes in the lesions due to probe miniaturization (3.4 mm in overall diameter), and 5) higher capacity freezing, which supports more accurate and controllable tissue temperatures. With the use of the newly developed system, numerous cryosurgical procedures, including those in the prostate, brain, and liver, have been successfully performed.