Explanation: A minimally invasive interventional procedure that uses extreme cold (delivered by substances like liquid nitrogen or argon gas) to destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. The rapid freezing and slow thawing cycles cause the formation of intracellular ice crystals, leading to osmotic shock, membrane disruption, and ultimately, coagulative necrosis of the targeted cells. It is commonly used for localized tumors in the prostate, liver, kidneys, and skin (e.g., actinic keratosis).