Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy, the use of a cryogenic (freezing) agent, has been utilized by doctors, dermatologists, podiatrists, and veterinarians for many years to remove benign skin growths (e.g., skin tags, warts). Cryotherapy works by applying a freezing agent directly to the tissue to be removed. To help avoid discomfort, a local anesthetic will be given prior to freezing. The cryogenic agent freezes the water content in the tissue's cells and disrupts the cell membranes. As the tissue thaws, the blood supply to the treated area is also disrupted. These effects work together to essentially "kill" the treated tissue.