Cryotherapy destroys abnormal tissue on the cervix by freezing it. Cryotherapy destroys some normal tissue along with the abnormal tissue. During cryotherapy, liquid nitrogen, which is very cold, circulates through a probe placed next to the abnormal tissue. This freezes the tissue for 2 to 3 minutes. It may be allowed to thaw and then be refrozen for another 2 to 3 minutes. A single freeze treatment for 5 minutes may also be used. One cervical cryotherapy is usually sufficient to destroy the abnormal tissue.
How Cervical Cryotherapy is Performed
Your doctor will place a small freeze-probe (cryoprobe) against the cervix that cools the cervix to sub-zero temperatures. The cells destroyed by freezing are shed afterward in a heavy watery discharge. The freezing usually lasts about five minutes with a slight amount of discomfort.
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