Lahore: A modern non-surgical cancer treatment facility at Lahore’s Mayo Hospital has become non-operational after its cryoablation machine was shut down, leaving patients unable to access the advanced treatment.
The cryoablation service was suspended after the doctor responsible for operating the machine retired, while no replacement specialist was appointed, according to the report.
The cryoablation machine had been introduced at Mayo Hospital to provide a minimally invasive treatment option for certain early-stage cancers. The facility was inaugurated by the Punjab chief minister in September 2025.
The machine, imported from China, was being used for selected cases of early-stage liver, lung and breast cancer. The procedure works by freezing cancerous tissue and destroying cancer cells without conventional surgery.
Unlike traditional cancer treatment approaches such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, cryoablation uses extreme cold to target and destroy abnormal tissue.
The suspension of the service has created difficulties for patients who were seeking access to the advanced treatment. The absence of a replacement doctor has also raised concerns about the restoration of the facility and continued availability of the procedure.