Therapy
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy abnormal tissue, such as warts, skin lesions or some small tumours.
Quick answer
Cryotherapy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Cryotherapy applies very cold liquid nitrogen or a cold probe to freeze and destroy unwanted tissue. It is widely used for skin problems and, in some cases, to treat small tumours internally.
- Why it is done: It is used to treat warts, verrucas, skin tags, sun-damaged patches and some early skin cancers, and occasionally for small tumours in organs such as the prostate, kidney or liver.
- What happens: For skin lesions, the cold is applied with a spray or probe for a few seconds in a clinic, often without anaesthetic.
What it is
Cryotherapy applies very cold liquid nitrogen or a cold probe to freeze and destroy unwanted tissue. It is widely used for skin problems and, in some cases, to treat small tumours internally.
Why it is done
It is used to treat warts, verrucas, skin tags, sun-damaged patches and some early skin cancers, and occasionally for small tumours in organs such as the prostate, kidney or liver.
What happens
For skin lesions, the cold is applied with a spray or probe for a few seconds in a clinic, often without anaesthetic. Internal cryotherapy uses imaging to guide a probe to the tumour under anaesthetic.
Recovery
Treated skin may blister, scab and heal over one to two weeks, sometimes needing more than one session. Internal cryotherapy recovery depends on the site and is monitored by the specialist team.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include pain, blistering, changes in skin colour and scarring, and treatment sometimes needing to be repeated. For internal use, effects on nearby structures depend on the area treated.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Cryotherapy: frequently asked questions
Does cryotherapy hurt?
Freezing a skin lesion can sting or feel sore for a short time, and the area may throb afterwards. It is usually well tolerated and often needs no anaesthetic for small skin treatments.
Will one treatment be enough?
Sometimes, but stubborn warts or lesions may need several sessions a few weeks apart. Your clinician will advise on how many treatments are likely to be needed.
Related
Other therapy
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — cancer treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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