Spray CryoTherapy

Breakthrough Treatment Option for Barrett’s Esophagus:
Why Spray CryoTherapy?

Washington Hospital Center has proven success offering the latest technology for endoscopic treatment of esophageal dysplasia and cancer — a low-pressure system using endoscopically-guided liquid nitrogen spray called Spray CryoTherapy.

• Spray CryoTherapy is a simple outpatient procedure, typically requiring only 20 to 30 minutes.
• Studies show that Spray CryoTherapy is safe and well-tolerated, compared to other therapies such as esophagectomy, BÂRRX™ radiofrequency ablation of Barrett’s esophagus, photodynamic therapy and endoscopic mucosal resection.
• Studies also show complete ablation at two to seven days, and complete healing with regrowth of normal epithelium at 14 to 21 days.
• Washington Hospital Center was one of the first facilities in the country to offer Spray CryoTherapy, and has performed more than 70 cases in three years.
• Washington Hospital Center is one of two hospitals in the entire metropolitan area to offer Spray CryoTherapy

Symptoms and Appropriate Candidates for Spray CryoTherapy

• The exact risk of a patient with Barrett’s esophagus developing cancer is unknown. Current estimates put the risk at 40 times higher than the norm.
• Candidates may present with chronic heartburn, but nearly half the people who develop cancer do not have heartburn.
• Candidates for cryotherapy ablation therapy are those with:
  • Barrett’s esophagus with dysplasia
  • Severe squamous dysplasia of the esophagus
  • Early stage esophageal cancer not amenable to standard therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Our experienced team maintains communication with the referring physician during the treatment process and refers the patient back to the physician following treatment.