Cryotherapy, also known as cryosurgery or cryodestruction, is a modern method of treating precancerous cervical changes that have previously been histologically diagnosed by targeted biopsy and/or endocervical curettage.
Method principle:
Cryotherapy removes tissue by treating it with low temperature of -50 to -70 degrees Celsius. It is carried out using CO2 (carbon dioxide) -operated device which ensures the low cryodestructive temperature and sterile gold tips. They vary in shape to make it easier to get in contact with the tissue that needs to be removed. The method is painless, does not require general or local anesthesia because low temperatures remove sensation from nerve endings and pain receptors. The duration of the procedure is several minutes, after which the patient can return to her daily life.
Indications (evidence) for cryosurgery – patients with histologically proven precancerous changes of the cervix-CIN I, II, III, established after the presence of the following symptoms:
- Continuous vaginal discharge (fluorine) without evidence of infection in microbiological testing data.
- Contact bleeding (during and after sexual contact).
- Spotting before or after the period; patients with ectopias (“sores”) of the cervix without colposcopic atypia.
Cryosurgery Preparation (Cryotherapy):
- The procedure is performed after menstrual cycle.
- The vaginal discharge is remediated with local anti-anaerobic tablets.
- It lasts as long as a gynecological examination – no anesthesia is required.
What should patients expect after cryotherapy?
- No antibiotics are required after cryodestruction.
- Sexual intercourse, douchebags, swimming pools and bath tubs are not permitted for a period of about 3 weeks (until the next menstrual cycle)
- For the same period, there is normally an excessive colorless and odorless discharge.
Advantages of cryosurgery (cryotherapy):
- Painless, fast and effective method of treating ectopias (“sores”) and precancerous cervical changes.
- Cosmetic and anatomical recovery of the cervix and cervical canal – the procedure is suitable for young and nulliparous women.
- The cryodestruction does not release the unpleasant and smelly smoke that accompanies electro and laser destruction procedures. This eliminates the risk of inhaling smoke containing viruses.