Condensation of humidity in the air may in some cases create an ice field on top of the lesion. This 'igloo of ice' will hinder the
effective working of the liquid phase of the cryogen (at -89°C/-128°F) and should be removed.
The learning curve for utilizing the CryoPen is short. CryoPen provides the possibility to have full control in the application of
freezing power. Start practicing on the regular lesions and treat the more delicate ones after having acquired some experience.
Duration/Depth of the treatment
Hold the tip of the applicator as close as possible to the lesion. In all literature, the rapid drop of temperature (thermal shock)
is described as a critical criterion. However, always relate to the part of the body where the operation is applied. In some parts,
skin is thinner which requires more caution.
A typical freeze on viral infections may last from 5 to 10 seconds for a small flat wart, and up to 45 seconds for a full thickness
plantar wart. For general purposes most lesions take about 2 to 30 seconds.
The duration of the treatment will depend on the surface and the thickness of the tissue being treated. Thickness must be
estimated based on clinical experience. After the first freezing cycle the tissue should be allowed to thaw for about 30 seconds
followed by a second freeze. Note that the tissue will freeze faster than during the first freezing cycle. This 'freeze-thaw-freeze'
technique offers the best opportunity for success.
You will find this procedure in most literature on cryotherapy. A follow-up visit is recommended after 2 to 4 weeks to confirm
that all pathological tissue has disappeared and check if a follow-up treatment is necessary.
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