The cryoICE technology leverages the power of cryotherapy, a practice that has been around for decades. The technology delivers a precise freezing temperature to the intercostal nerves, providing temporary pain relief in cardiac and thoracic procedures.

How the cryoSPHERE Probe for Cryo Nerve Block Therapy Works

1 / Heat Extraction

The cryoICE system delivers Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) within the probe at a high rate of speed causing the probe to cool and extract heat from surrounding tissue. When the probe is placed on the intercostal bundle, rapid heat extraction causes the intercostal nerve to freeze inducing a well-described process called Wallerian degeneration.

2 / The Science Behind Cryo Nerve Block

Axons within the intercostal nerve that send pain signals are destroyed distal to the cryoablation site. The tubule structures of the nerve remain intact allowing the axons to regenerate and nerve function to resume over the course of several months.

3 / Technique & Technology Matter

AtriCure consulted with leading pain management experts to develop a specific protocol for applying cryoanalgesia to the intercostal spaces. The cryoICE cryoSPHERE probe is solely dedicated to blocking pain by temporarily ablating peripheral nerves.

4 / Active Defrost

Active Defrost allows the probe to be easily removed from the cryoablation site avoiding any inadvertent damage to the tubule structures of the nerve.