A novel multimodal approach to treating proximal tracheal obstructions with spray cryotherapy

Spray cryotherapy (SCT) ablation of airway obstructions is an evolving field of clinical practice and research in thoracic disease (1). The third generation truFreeze System (CSA Medical, Lexington, MA) is the only SCT device approved for airway use. Using a series of valves to regulate the flow of the liquid nitrogen cryogen from the storage dewar to the exit point at the catheter tip, this current system creates a more even flow of liquid nitrogen without nitrogen gas pocket development. This regulated liquid nitrogen release enables greater stability during the transition to nitrogen gas at the treatment site than prior systems and facilitates uniform elastic recoil of the lung for safe nitrogen gas evacuation.