Freezing To Remove Abnormal Tissue
Cryotherapy is a quick procedure involving cold temperatures to freeze and kill abnormal tissue. In this process, substances such as nitrogen or argon gas are used. Cryotherapy can be used both on the skin and inside the body. This is an effective treatment with a positive outcome and fast recovery.
Ways to freeze
Cryotherapy is done in 2 ways depending on the location. If the lesion is located on the skin or externally, a spraying device is used to spray the agent. Internal lesions where treatment is needed inside the body are managed with an instrument known as a cryoprobe.
Expectations during the procedure
Before freezing the patient’s lesions, the doctor will give the patient a brief about the procedure. With external cryotherapy, the freezing agent is applied to the lesion. In internal cryotherapy, a small incision and a cryoprobe is inserted. Based on the location of the abnormal tissue, the patient may be given local or general anesthesia.
Cryotherapy and its benefits
This fast and short treatment aids in reducing the symptoms of many medical conditions. Cryotherapy helps in treating conditions such as migraines, mood disorders, skin conditions like eczema, dementia, and various cancer types. Cryotherapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety by 50%. Additionally, the treatment benefits helping to lose weight and reducing pain and inflammation in disorders such as arthritis. Cancer of the prostate, cervical, liver, bone, cervix, and skin recover quickly with the use of cryotherapy.
Looking out for side effects
Cryotherapy is generally safe, but some patients may experience a few side effects. Common side effects are tingling, numbness, redness, and skin irritation. The side effects are temporary and should go away in 24 hours. If the side effects remain after 24 hours, contact the healthcare provider. Some complications after the procedure are minimal bleeding or pain, nerve damage, swelling and scarring, skin infection, and bone fractures.
After cryotherapy
The outlook after the cryotherapy treatment is positive and provides quick results and fast recovery. Most patients do not need any extra care after treatment. However, depending on the area treated, some patients may need to restrict some activities for a few days. A healthcare provider will advise how many treatments are needed prior to resuming activities.
Thinking of getting cryotherapy
Speak to a doctor about receiving cryotherapy treatment. The healthcare provider will assess the patient’s lesion and make a decision. Many patients do well after receiving this treatment. This procedure is short with quick results and rapid recovery.
