FREEZING THERAPIES

the latest sub-zero treatments. this week: heartburn

SPRAYS of liquid nitrogen at nearly -200c are being used to treat Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition where the cells grow abnormally, and which can be a precursor to oesophageal cancer. Acid reflux and GORD (gastrooesophageal reflux disease), when acid irritates and inflames the oesophagus or gullet, can lead to Barrett’s.

The new treatment involves spraying liquid nitrogen onto the affected area, freezing the unwanted tissue. The sprayed area is then allowed to thaw naturally. This rapid freezethaw cycle, which is carried out several times, has been shown to destroy affected cells, while preserving the underlying tissue structure that acts as a ‘scaffold’ to help new, healthy, replacement tissue grow.