What is a cryoprobe used for in a cryosurgery procedure?

A cryoprobe is specifically designed to deliver extreme cold temperatures to targeted tissues during a cryosurgery procedure. The mechanism behind this technique involves applying low temperatures to induce cell death, which is effective in treating various medical conditions, particularly tumors and lesions.

By freezing the affected tissues, the cryoprobe causes ice crystals to form within the cells, leading to cellular rupture and ultimately necrosis. This method can minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues compared to traditional surgical methods, making it a valuable tool in procedures aimed at eradicating abnormal or diseased cells.

Other options like heating tissues rapidly and cutting tissues do not align with the purpose of a cryoprobe, as its fundamental function is to apply cold rather than heat or incise. Monitoring vital signs is also unrelated to the specific function of the cryoprobe during cryosurgery, which focuses solely on the application of extreme cold to achieve therapeutic effects.