Cryotherapy is a medical procedure that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. This method is often employed in various fields of medicine, at ARC Medicals we specialise in dermatology Cryotherapy. Here’s an overview of cryosurgery, its applications, benefits, and potential risks:

Applications of Cryosurgery

  1. Dermatology:
    • Skin Tags: Small, benign growths on the skin can be effectively removed using cryotherapy.
    • Warts: Cryotherapy is commonly used to remove warts, including common warts and plantar warts.
    • Verrucae: Verrucae are warts found on the soles of the feet and due to pressure, they grow inwards. Cryotherapy is often used to treat Verrucae.
    • Actinic Keratosis: Precancerous skin lesions caused by sun damage are often treated with cryotherapy. A GP confirmation may be required.
    • Moles and Other Benign Lesions: Certain benign skin growths can be removed using this technique. A GP confirmation may be required.

Procedure

  • Preparation: The area to be treated is usually cleaned, and sometimes a topical anaesthetic is applied to minimise discomfort.
  • Application: Liquid nitrogen is applied to the targeted area using a cryoprobe. The temperature can drop to as low as -196°C (-320°F).
  • Freezing Cycle: The tissue is rapidly frozen and then allowed to thaw. This cycle may be repeated several times during a session.
  • Aftercare: The treated area might form a blister or scab, which usually heals within a few weeks. Patients are advised to keep the area clean and follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by the healthcare provider.

Benefits of Cryotherapy

  • Minimally Invasive: Cryotherapy is less invasive than traditional surgery, often requiring only local anaesthesia.
  • Quick Recovery: The recovery time is generally shorter compared to more invasive procedures.
  • Precision: Allows for precise targeting of abnormal tissue while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
  • Effectiveness: Highly effective for treating a variety of conditions, especially superficial skin lesions.

Risks and Side Effects

  • Pain and Discomfort: Some pain, swelling, or redness at the treatment site is common.
  • Blistering: The treated area may blister, which can be uncomfortable but usually heals on its own.
  • Scarring: There is a risk of scarring, particularly with deeper or larger lesions.
  • Infection: Although rare, there is a potential risk of infection if the treated area is not properly cared for.
  • Nerve Damage: In some cases, particularly when treating deeper tissues, there is a risk of nerve damage, which can lead to numbness or loss of function in the affected area.

Cryotherapy is a versatile and effective treatment option for a variety of medical conditions, particularly those involving abnormal or diseased tissue. It offers several benefits, including being minimally invasive and having a relatively quick recovery time, but it also carries certain risks that should be considered and discussed with a healthcare provider.

Please see our Contraindications page to check if Cryotherapy could be suitable for you – Click Here

Please see our Aftercare page to ensure Cryotherapy will be suitable – Click Here

To discuss your needs or book an appointment with us please call 01443 303003 or email medicals@thearcgroup.co.uk