CRYOTHERAPY
Targeted cold therapy for precancerous lesions
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to rapidly freeze and destroy select precancerous spots and superficial skin lesions. Performed directly in clinic, this established, non-surgical technique treats targeted surface cells without requiring incisions or stitches.
What is cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is a method used to manage and treat certain benign, precancerous, and cancerous skin lesions. It involves applying liquid nitrogen to rapidly freeze the targeted area, lowering the skin’s temperature to a point where abnormal tissue is destroyed.
Cryotherapy may be considered for conditions such as:
- Superficial basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen’s disease)
- Actinic keratosis
How cryotherapy works
The equipment
We utilize the spray method, the standard approach for cryotherapy in skin cancer care. A liquid nitrogen canister feeds a handheld sprayer to deliver a controlled application suited for lesions roughly 3 to 5 mm in depth.
Active monitoring
Continuous visual monitoring is maintained throughout treatment. As liquid nitrogen is applied, a temporary “ice halo” forms around the lesion. The width of this halo guides the clinician in managing the depth and boundary of the freeze.
Tailored application
Smaller spots are treated with direct or spiral spray patterns, while larger areas use a sweeping paintbrush motion. Precancerous lesions typically receive a 2 mm freeze margin, whereas cancerous lesions require a broader 5 mm margin.
Clinical considerations
Cryotherapy provides an established, non-surgical option for managing select precancerous and superficial skin lesions. Because it is performed directly in the clinic without incisions or sutures, it allows patients to return to their daily routines shortly after treatment. At the Kelowna Private Skin Cancer Clinic, our clinicians apply standardized techniques and ongoing monitoring to support natural skin healing.
See how cryotherapy works in this short video
Book your appointment
If you have a lesion or skin concern that may require cryotherapy, our team is here to help you evaluate your options.