SERVICES
CRYOTHERAPY
What is cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is an advanced surgical procedure that utilises low temperatures to remove atypical tissue. Typically, cryotherapy is used to freeze and remove skin tags, warts and skin cancer. Dr Ndongeni utilises cryotherapy as a treatment modality for skin lesions by freezing and removing the abnormal cells.
Cryotherapy can also be used to resolve skin lesions which are abnormal growths of skin or rough patches on the skin.
Usually, skin lesions are a sign of the following:
- A benign/non-cancerous skin condition
- Precancerous skin condition (Actinic keratosis) that appears to be scaly/rough patches on the skin.
- Skin cancer, a type of superficial cancer, develops on the skin’s surface.
Fortunately, cryotherapy preserves the region surrounding the lesions, which minimises the risk of future scarring.
How do you perform cryotherapy?
There’s no preparation involved for cryotherapy. However, before the procedure, you must remove any lotion, makeup or powder. Cryotherapy involves spraying or using a cotton swab to apply liquid nitrogen over the affected skin region. The freezing may be uncomfortable at first, so a numbing agent may be delivered to the area first.
Cryotherapy is a popular method to super-freeze and destroy abnormal skin tissue. The procedure can be completed in under a minute in Dr Ndongeni’s room.
What can I expect in terms of my recovery?
Cryotherapy sessions may be repeated for some skin lesions, such as warts. It’s normal to experience pain within the first three days after cryotherapy. Dr Ndongeni will prescribe medication to help ease the discomfort.
The only postoperative instructions provided entail how and when to wash the area and how to apply bandages properly. Normally, a scab forms, which peels away in about one or three weeks, depending on the size of the treated area.
You will need to contact Dr Ndongeni’s practice should you develop the following:
- Drainage from the wound site
- Inflammation
- Redness in the area
- Skin lesion remains as is
A skin biopsy can be conducted to analyse the lesion and check for signs of skin cancer.
Typically, a blister forms within several hours from the time of the procedure. The scab is expected to fall off within one-three weeks.
Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen) may be applied using a cotton swab or spraying apparatus.
