Cryosurgical ablation of unresectable hepatic tumors

Ultrasound-guided hepatic cryosurgery is a potential treatment option for select patients with unresectable tumors. Intraoperative placement of cryoprobes and monitoring of tumor freezing with ultrasonography produce complete remission in 22% to 29% of patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal tumors to the liver. Perioperative nurses should be knowledgeable about cryosurgical techniques and be prepared to participate in this innovative treatment modality to provide optimal care to surgical patients.