This freezing technique is used by dermatologists and gynecologists to treat skin lesions without the need for surgery. It is a treatment method applied with nitrogen oxide gas or liquid nitrogen at -190 degrees. It is an easily applicable, economical treatment method that does not require hospitalization and provides quick results, suitable for all ages and genders.
When is Cryotherapy Performed?
As it is not a surgical procedure, it can be performed at a time that suits your and your doctor's schedule. Depending on the location, depth, and size of the treated area, the procedure is completed in 5-12 seconds.
Can Everyone Undergo Cryotherapy?
There are no risk groups, including during pregnancy. It is a rapid treatment method that can be applied to patients of all ages and genders with conditions suitable for this treatment and does not require anesthesia.
For Which Diseases is Cryotherapy Used?
Cryotherapy can be used to treat many damaged or diseased tissues such as benign cell growths, sunspots, nerve compressions, ingrown nails, calluses, moles (nevi), warts, skin cancer, and prostate cancer by creating cold damage in the tissue. In gynecology, it is an effective method for eliminating genital warts and cervical lesions. It is a cheap but effective method used since the time of the Egyptians.
Are There Any Advantages of Cryotherapy?
Especially in the treatment of skin tumors in elderly patients, it provides patient comfort as it is not a surgical procedure. In cryotherapy, warts have a lower recurrence rate compared to other methods. Cosmetic results in the treatment of sunspots are favorable. The risk of bleeding and complications is much lower compared to other methods. It is quick and easy to apply. It can be performed under outpatient conditions. It is economical and safe.
No need for anesthesia, local anesthesia can be applied if desired. It is possible to return to routine life and habits immediately after the procedure, without affecting work and social life. It is suitable for all ages and genders and can even be used on pregnant women.
Are There Any Risks of Cryotherapy?
While it varies depending on the applied area and the person, some side effects may occur in some cases. These include: edema, pain, swelling and water blistering in the treated area, bleeding, headache, infection, syncope, febrile reaction, nitrogen gas entering under the skin shown by crepitations, milium, pyogenic granuloma, hypertrophic scar, hyperpigmentation, paresthesia, neuropathy, tendon rupture, alopecia, ectropion, hypopigmentation, tissue defect formation, cartilage necrosis, retraction and notching of tissues.
How Long Does It Take for Cryotherapy to Show Results?
The successful outcome of cryotherapy varies depending on the location, depth, and size of the area to be treated. While success is achieved in 5-6 sessions for plantar warts, hand, face, and genital wart removal is achieved in 2-3 sessions.
Technology and Application Process in Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a method aimed at achieving therapeutic effects by applying cold air or liquid at low temperatures to the body. The technological infrastructure of this method is generally provided through special cryogenic devices. During the application process, the person is exposed to low temperatures for a certain period, supporting the body's healing process.
Advantages of cryotherapy include quick recovery, reduction of pain and inflammation, and enhancement of sports performance. However, before the application, the health status and potential risks of the person should be considered, and they should be correctly guided by a specialist doctor.
While a single session may suffice for many patients, in some cases, the procedure may need to be repeated between 2 to 6 sessions. There is typically a 2 to 3-week wait between sessions. It is possible to return to routine life immediately after treatment; this is one of the most preferred aspects of cryotherapy.
Home cryotherapy, though featured in some cosmetic products for simple cases, requires professional equipment and the supervision of a specialist doctor for medically recommended cryotherapy procedures. Home applications may have limited effect and risk causing irreversible damage to the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be considered after cryotherapy?
To ensure the healthy progress of the healing process after cryotherapy, the treated area should be kept clean and dry. It is recommended to avoid water contact in the first 24 hours. Scab formation is normal, and these scabs should fall off naturally. Not scratching the area, avoiding tight clothing, and protecting from the sun will speed up the healing process.
How many sessions does cryotherapy take?
The treatment plan varies depending on the type and distribution of the lesion. While a single session might suffice for some skin problems, 3-6 cryotherapy sessions may be required for persistent cases like warts. At least 2 weeks are allowed between sessions to enable skin healing.
Is home cryotherapy safe?
While home cryotherapy products may be used for some superficial warts or calluses, they are insufficient for medical applications. Incorrect use might lead to serious skin damage. Therefore, cryotherapy should be performed with professional equipment and by specialists.
How are cryotherapy devices chosen?
The cryotherapy device to be used is selected based on the area to be treated, the type of lesion, and the purpose of the application. Narrow-tipped devices are preferred in dermatological treatments, while different tips and temperature settings are used in gynecological cases. Modern devices shorten the treatment time while increasing success rates.