Abstract: The present invention pertains to an apparatus for cryosurgery. The apparatus comprises a cryoneedle having a diameter less than 3.2 mm. The apparatus is also comprised of a thermal insulation shell disposed about a portion of the cryoneedle for reduction of heat transfer from surrounding tissues or freezing prevention of surrounding tissues during application of the cryoneedle with the shell. The cryoneedle and shell are configured for insertion into a body of a patient. The present invention pertains to a method for freezing tissues. The method comprises the steps of bringing into contact a cryoneedle having a diameter of less than 3.2 mm with a patient's body. Next, there is the step of flowing the cryofluid through the cryoneedle.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an apparatus for cryosurgery. The apparatus comprises a cryoneedle having a diameter less than 3.2 mm. The apparatus is also comprised of a thermal insulation shell disposed about a portion of the cryoneedle for reduction of heat transfer from surrounding tissues or freezing prevention of surrounding tissues during application of the cryoneedle with the shell. The cryoneedle and shell are configured for insertion into a body of a patient. The present invention pertains to a method for freezing tissues. The method comprises the steps of bringing into contact a cryoneedle having a diameter of less than 3.2 mm with a patient's body. Next, there is the step of flowing the cryofluid through the cryoneedle.

Abstract: The system includes a mechanism for freezing tissue in a patient. Additionally, the system includes a mechanism for heating other tissue near the tissue being frozen by the freezing mechanism such that essentially only desired region is frozen by the freezing mechanism and heat from the heating mechanism prevents the other tissue from being frozen. The heating mechanism is disposed adjacent to but separate and apart from the freezing mechanism. Alternatively, the mechanism for heating can be used with tissue already frozen by the freezing mechanism. A method for performing cryosurgery on a patient. The method includes the steps of inserting a cryoprobe into a patient. Next, there is the step of placing a cryoheater in contact with the patient adjacent the cryoprobe. Then, there is the step of activating the cryoprobe and the cryoheater so the cryoprobe freezes desired tissue in the patient and the cryoheater heats other tissue around the desired tissue so the other tissue is not frozen by the cryoprobe.