Cryosurgery and cryotherapy

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery (also called Cryotherapy) is commonly used by healthcare professionals for targeted tissue destruction by freezing. Often only one treatment session is required. However, depending on the lesion, several treatments may be needed.

Cryosurgery is performed using a cryogen, which freezes the target tissue to below the level that correlates with cell destruction (also known as necrosis). When the cryogen evaporates, it absorbs heat from its surroundings, promoting endothermic cooling, causing cell destruction due to:

  • Direct effect of freezing on the cells
  • Vascular stasis which occurs after thawing

Cell survival at very low temperatures depends on a number of factors including freezing rate, temperature threshold, ice formation and freezing surface. In clinical settings, the size of the ice ball is a crucial aspect as some cells cannot be killed on the periphery. Favorable results can be obtained with the freeze-thaw technique.

Cryosurgery is effective for a large number of skin lesions. Advantages of disposable cryosurgery:

  • Short or no preparation time
  • Fast wound healing
  • Minimal risk of infection
  • Aesthetic cosmetic results

BIBAWO Medical offers Hydrozid®, a portable aerosol device for cryosurgery. Hydrozid® was developed for the treatment of verrucae (warts) and a wide range of other skin lesions. It has been successfully used in Europe by primary care physicians, pediatricians, podiatrists, and dermatologists. Now, it is available in the United States.

 

See Also:

Cryosurgery CPT Codes

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