Punjab Buys Five Cryoablation Machines for Cancer Care

Quick Answer

The Punjab government has purchased five new cryoablation machines to expand advanced cancer treatment in public hospitals. Two machines will be installed at the Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer in Lahore, while Nishtar Hospital, Allied Hospital and Benazir Bhutto Hospital will receive one machine each.

Punjab Expands Access to Modern Cancer Care

The Punjab government is expanding access to advanced cancer care by providing five new cryoablation machines to major hospitals across the province.

According to provincial health officials, the machines were purchased on the directions of the Chief Minister and have been sent to the selected hospitals for installation. The move will make this treatment available in more cities and reduce patients’ dependence on a single facility.

Which Hospitals Will Receive the Machines?

The five cryoablation machines will be distributed among hospitals in Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad and Rawalpindi.

The Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer will receive two machines, while the other three hospitals will each receive one.

What Is Cryoablation?

Cryoablation is a medical procedure that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal or cancerous tissue. During treatment, a specialist places a thin needle-like probe near or inside the targeted area. Cold gases are then used to freeze and damage the unwanted cells.

It is generally a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it may require smaller incisions than traditional surgery. This can support a shorter recovery period in suitable cases.

However, cryoablation is not appropriate for every cancer patient. Its use depends on factors such as the type, size, location and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. A qualified cancer specialist must assess whether the procedure is suitable.

Punjab’s First Cryoablation Machine

Punjab introduced its first cryoablation machine at Mayo Hospital in Lahore in 2025.

According to the information shared by provincial officials, more than 70 patients with Stage 1 cancer have since received successful treatment through the facility. The treatment was provided free of cost.

The experience at Mayo Hospital appears to have supported the decision to introduce the technology at additional public hospitals.

How Patients May Benefit

Installing cryoablation machines in four major cities will bring specialized care closer to patients living outside central Lahore.

People from Multan and nearby areas will be able to seek treatment at Nishtar Hospital. Allied Hospital will serve patients in Faisalabad and surrounding districts, while Benazir Bhutto Hospital will improve access for patients from Rawalpindi and adjoining areas.

The wider availability of this technology may help eligible patients receive assessment and treatment earlier. It may also reduce travel expenses for families who previously had to visit Lahore for such facilities.

The exact treatment process, eligibility requirements and appointment system will depend on the arrangements introduced by each hospital.

Government Focus on Modern Medical Technology

Punjab Health Secretary Azmat Mahmood said the use of modern medical technology would strengthen the province’s healthcare infrastructure and improve access to specialized treatment.

He described the installation of the new machines as an important step towards better healthcare services for cancer patients and the development of a healthier Punjab.

The placement of these machines at major teaching and public hospitals may also help medical teams gain further experience in image-guided and minimally invasive cancer procedures.

Free Cancer Treatment Across Punjab

The Health Secretary said the Punjab government has already provided free cancer treatment worth billions of rupees to patients across the province.

No exact amount or detailed breakdown was included in the available information. It is also not yet clear whether all procedures performed through the five new machines will be available free of cost.

Patients should contact the relevant hospital or Punjab health authorities for confirmed information about treatment charges, eligibility and required documents.

What Happens Next?

The machines have been dispatched to their assigned hospitals and will now undergo installation. Hospitals may also need to complete technical checks, prepare treatment areas and assign trained medical teams before services begin.

No specific date has been announced for the machines to become fully operational. Further information is expected from the concerned hospitals or provincial health authorities.

Patients interested in cryoablation should first consult an oncologist or another qualified cancer specialist. Treatment decisions should be based on medical tests and individual assessment rather than general information.