What is Cryosurgery?
Cryosurgery is a non-surgical procedure that involves applying cold liquid nitrogen or argon gas to an affected area, creating a localised frostbite that kills cancer cells or abnormal tissues.
Liquid nitrogen cryosurgery is a safe and minimally invasive method for treating various skin conditions, and this treatment is used on many different diagnoses, especially on pre-cancers like actinic keratosis.
The Cryosurgery Procedure
The cryosurgery treatment is safe and can be done with local anesthesia for the patient’s comfort. To begin, the doctor administers the extreme cold – liquid nitrogen or argon gas – using either a cotton swab or a spraying device. For internal tumours, it may be necessary to use a cryosurgery machine called “Cryoprobe”, employed to freeze the affected tissue.
The Cryosurgery technique is versatile and can be repeated as needed, providing a tailored approach to each patient’s unique requirements.
What Cryosurgery Is Used For?
Cryosurgery can be used to treat a wide range of skin issues, including but not limited to:
- Skin Cancers: Cryosurgery for skin cancer is an effective treatment for certain types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in situ, including Bowen’s; this is also an ideal treatment for certain precancerous skin conditions, such as actinic keratosis.
- Skin Lesions and Cosmetic Concerns: The treatment can be used for
a. Cryosurgery for wartsb. Skin tag cryosurgeryc. Cryosurgery for molesd. Actinic keratoses: Actinic keratoses (AK) are precancerous skin lesions resulting from prolonged sun exposure. These rough, scaly patches commonly appear on sun-exposed areas and, while not cancerous themselves, pose a risk of progressing to skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Seeking medical attention for evaluation and potential treatment, such as cryotherapy, is essential to manage the risk.
- Precancerous Lesions: Cryosurgery can address pre-cancerous lesions, preventing them from developing into full-blown skin cancers.
- Other Tumors: Cryosurgery for cancer can be used for cancerous or noncancerous tumours in various parts of the body, including bone, kidney, and lung tumours.
*It’s important to note that while cryosurgery is beneficial for various skin conditions, for other health concerns that require procedures under general anesthesia, it may be necessary to consult with a different specialist.
What to Expect?
Before the Procedure:
The doctor will instruct you on the preparation for the day. It may be necessary that the patient fasts for 12 hours before the treatment, and certain medications may need to be stopped.
The Day of the Treatment:
The duration of the procedure varies depending on the size and number of spots being treated but typically takes around 10 minutes. Once you arrive at the appointment, you’ll be comfortably positioned, and the freezing agent will be applied to the affected area.
Experiencing some mild discomfort or a stinging sensation during the procedure is normal but generally well-tolerated.
Possible Risks
- Scarring
- Loss of pigmentation
- Swelling
- Bleeding and blisters
- Loss of hair in the treatment area.
- Healing issues.
- Loss of sensation.
Cryosurgery Aftercare
The healing process typically takes one to two weeks; with the treatment completed, your specialist will advise on the aftercare process and if it’s necessary to do more treatments in the future.
To facilitate proper healing, it’s important not to scratch, rub, or irritate the treated area. Applying Vaseline can keep the area moisturised and protected, but apply it only if your doctor allows it.
Things to Consider:
After approximately four weeks, you should observe the emergence of normal skin at the treatment site. However, in some instances, changes in tissue texture and colouration may persist. Some areas may appear darker or lighter than the surrounding skin, and these changes can be permanent.
If you have concerns about the appearance of your skin after cryosurgery, don’t hesitate to consult with your doctor, who can guide you on potential solutions or alternative treatments.
Need Cryosurgery in Australia?
Cryosurgery is a versatile and minimally invasive treatment option for various skin conditions. If you’re considering this procedure or have questions about its suitability for your specific case, we’re here to help.
At Manningham Skin Cancer Clinic, we prioritise early detection and the effective treatment of skin issues.
In Australia, 2 out of 3 people get diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70; that’s why early treatment is key to a successful outcome.
If you’re concerned about any skin condition, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with our specialists in Melbourne for a complete examination and personalised advice on our skin services.
Contact us today to learn more about our skin services, skin screening and cryosurgery costs. Book an appointment and let our specialist provide expert medical care.