Cryosurgery is a method of destroying abnormal tissue by freezing it in low temperature with the help of oxide. The temperature drop has the effect of crystallising the fluid contents of the targeted cells, turning them into ice shards, resulting in the destruction of skin lesions as the membrane surrounding the treated cells is ruptured and destroyed.
What are the advantages of the procedure?
- safe
- relatively painless, doesn’t require anaesthetics
- highly effective
- the lack of side effects or very mild side effects
- patients of any age can undergo the procedure
- destroying the tissue without the need of cutting it - avoiding the inconveniences connected with traditional surgical procedures
- no complications after the procedure
What are the indications for the procedure?
Cervix:
- erosions in patients who experience recurrent infections and other treatments prove ineffective
- squamous cell papilloma of the cervix related to HPV virus infection
- Nabothian cyst
- endometriosis
Vagina, vulva, abnormal changes around the anus area:
- squamous cell papilloma related to HPV virus infection
- genital warts related to HPV virus infection
- other warts qualified for gynaecological aesthetic cryosurgery
What are the counterindications to the procedure?
- inflammation of the reproductive organ
- dysplastic lesions of the cervix
- cervical cancer
- pregnancy (doesn’t apply to vulva)
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure is relatively short (10-15 minutes) and is done in our gynaecological surgery. Cryotherapy is a bloodless and relatively pain-free method. During the procedure only superficial tissue is destroyed, deeper tissue is left intact. If the treatment is performed on the cervix, the patient may experience some discomfort – cramping caused by the contraction of the uterus. In case of cryosurgery of vagina or vulva, the procedure is completely painless.
What are the post treatment recommendations?
As a result of tissue damage, a watery vaginal discharge will occur for up to 2 weeks. To ensure proper hygiene, it is recommended to use pads as discharge might be quite heavy. Sexual intercourse should be avoided for the whole healing period (from 2-4 to 6 weeks).