Research article

Complications after cryosurgery with new miniature cryoprobes in long hollow bones: An animal trial

Frank Popken¹ , Peter Meschede¹ , Heike Erberich² , Timmo Koy¹ , Marfalda Bosse³ , Jürgen H Fischer³ and Peer Eysel¹

¹  Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cologne, Josef-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931 Cologne, Germany

²  Institute of Pathology, University of Cologne, Josef-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931 Cologne, Germany

³  Institute of Experimental Medicine, University of Cologne, Robert-Koch-Str. 10, 50931 Köln, Germany

author email corresponding author email

BMC Surgery 2005, 5:17doi:10.1186/1471-2482-5-17

Published:	7 August 2005

Abstract

Background

In vitro studies show that new miniature cryoprobes are suitable for cryoablation of bone tissue. The aim of this animal trial on 24 sheep was to examine the perioperative complications, particularly the danger of embolism, of cryoablation when using miniature cryoprobes.

Methods

Cryoablations with 2 freeze-thaw cycles each were carried out in the epiphysis of the right tibia and the metaphysis of the left femur. Pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and central venous pressure (CVP) were measured. Throughout the intra- and perioperative phase, heart rate and oxygen saturation by pulse oxymetry, blood gas and electrolytes were monitored regularly. Postoperative complications were examined up to 24 weeks postoperativ.

Results

As result, no significant increase of PAP, CVP or heart rate were observed. Blood gases were unremarkable, with pO₂ and pCO₂ remaining constant throughout the operation. Regarding pH, standard bicarbonate and base excess, only a non-significant shift towards a slight acidosis was seen. There was a mean hemoglobin decrease of 0.5 g/dl. One animal showed postoperative wound infection and wound edge necrosis. No major peri- and postoperative complications associated with cryosurgery of bone were observed, especially regarding clinically relevant pulmonary embolism.

Conclusion

Surgery with new types of miniature cryoprobes appears to be a safe alternative to or a complement to conventional resection of abnormal bone tissue.