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Freeze Pen Cryo Surgery

November 15 2022

Here at Santaluz Animal Care, we pride ourselves in staying on the cutting edge of veterinary medicine. One of the many high-tech options that we are happy to offer is freeze pen cryo surgery. This quick and effective treatment is a wonderful way to deal with many medical issues our furry patients may develop, such as warts and tumors. A Rancho Santa Fe, CA vet offers some information on this below.

History

The word cryosurgery comes from the Greek word ‘Cryo’, which means ‘Ice cold’, and the word ‘Surgery.’ As the name suggests, freeze pens look very much like regular pens. The concept and technology behind cryo surgery is based on the fact that our bodies are mostly water. The offending tissues are frozen, usually with liquid nitrogen. The process kills the cells within, effectively stopping malignant growths, such as tumors, in their tracks. Ask your vet for more information.

Uses

Freeze pen cryo surgery offers some wonderful and unique benefits. It won’t damage healthy skin, is very cost effective, and can be used to treat a wide variety of issues. Some of these include ear tumors, eyelid tumors, cysts, and warts, to name just a few. It is also often used to treat distichiae, or extra eyelashes, which is a problem we sometimes see in dogs. This may not sound like a big problem, but they are quite uncomfortable, and can actually damage Fido’s corneas.

Aftercare

What happens after treatment? Once the tissue has been frozen, it will die and fall off. (It may not look pretty during this process, but that’s normal.) Your furry buddy should not experience discomfort, though you may need to bathe them to remove the dead tissue. Your vet will give you specific aftercare instructions, which will vary a bit depending on the issue being treated. Be sure to follow these to the letter!

Sessions

One question people often have with treatment options is how many sessions will be needed. This ultimately depends on the pet and the issue being treated. For something quite small, like a wart or little tumor, one session may do the trick. Other conditions may need multiple treatments. Your vet will be able to offer specific information once your furry buddy has been properly diagnosed.

Our Advice on Freeze Pen Cryo Surgery in 2024

What is freeze pen cryo surgery?

Freeze pen cryo surgery is a minimally invasive veterinary procedure that uses extreme cold, typically from liquid nitrogen, to freeze and destroy abnormal tissue without damaging the surrounding healthy skin. This technique is effective for treating a variety of conditions, including warts, tumors, cysts, and certain eyelid issues like extra eyelashes (distichiae) in pets. The process involves the application of cold to the targeted area, killing the affected cells, which then die off and fall away, often requiring minimal to no aftercare. It’s a cost-effective, efficient option for managing specific veterinary medical issues.

What does the term “cryosurgery” mean?

Cryosurgery, derived from the Greek words “Cryo” meaning “ice cold” and “surgery,” refers to a medical procedure that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. In veterinary medicine, it involves applying liquid nitrogen or another freezing agent to target and kill problematic cells, such as those in warts, tumors, and other skin conditions, without harming the surrounding healthy tissue. This technique is valued for its precision, minimal discomfort, and effectiveness in treating various conditions with little to no need for incisions or traditional surgery methods.

Besides the expected dead tissue, are there other temporary side effects to be aware of?

After undergoing freeze pen cryo surgery, pets may experience temporary side effects besides the expected dead tissue, such as redness, swelling, or minor discomfort around the treated area. These side effects are generally mild and should resolve on their own as the healing process progresses. It’s also possible for the treated area to appear unsightly until the dead tissue fully detaches and heals. Your vet will provide specific aftercare instructions to manage these effects and ensure a smooth recovery for your pet.

Is anesthesia required for cryo surgery, or can it be done on an awake animal?

Cryo surgery often does not require anesthesia and can be performed on an awake animal, especially for minor procedures like removing small warts or treating superficial skin lesions. The process is quick and causes minimal discomfort, making it suitable for awake treatments. However, the need for anesthesia depends on the specific case, the size and location of the area being treated, and the animal’s temperament. For more extensive procedures or if the pet is anxious, sedation or anesthesia may be recommended to ensure the animal’s comfort and safety during the procedure.

What is the general success rate for cryo surgery on common issues like warts or small tumors?

The general success rate for cryo surgery on common issues like warts or small tumors is high, with many cases resulting in complete resolution of the treated condition. This technique is particularly effective for superficial lesions, where the controlled freezing can precisely target and eliminate abnormal tissues without harming the surrounding healthy skin. Success rates can vary depending on the specific condition, the size and depth of the lesion, and the animal’s overall health. Follow-up treatments may be necessary for larger or deeper issues, but most pets respond well to this minimally invasive procedure.

Do you want to learn more about freeze pen cryo surgery? Reach out to our Rancho Santa Fe, CA vet clinic today to schedule an appointment for your furry friend!