Cryosurgery | Orlando Women’s Center
Cryosurgery, also known as cervical cryotherapy, is a medical procedure used to treat certain abnormal or precancerous cells on the cervix.
It is a minimally invasive treatment that uses extremely cold temperatures to destroy abnormal tissue, allowing healthy cervical cells to grow in their place.
Cervical cryosurgery is generally considered safe and effective for appropriately selected patients.
How Does Cryosurgery Help Prevent Cervical Cancer?
Cryosurgery helps prevent cervical cancer by destroying certain precancerous cells before they have an opportunity to develop into cancer.
Abnormal cervical cells are frequently associated with persistent infections caused by high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
Although many mild cervical abnormalities resolve naturally without treatment, some changes can persist or progress over time.
Not every abnormal Pap smear requires cryosurgery. The decision to treat depends on the severity of the abnormal cells, biopsy results, HPV findings, and the patient’s medical history.
When treatment is necessary, cryosurgery may be recommended for certain precancerous lesions that are fully visible and accessible on the cervix.
Cryosurgery is not an appropriate treatment for invasive cervical cancer. Patients with suspected cancer or abnormalities extending into the cervical canal may require additional testing or a different procedure.
When Is Cervical Cryosurgery Recommended?
Cervical cryosurgery may be recommended when abnormal cervical cells are identified through screening tests and further medical evaluation.
These abnormalities may be detected during:
- Pap smear (Pap test): A screening procedure used to identify abnormal changes in cervical cells.
- HPV testing: A test that detects high-risk HPV infections associated with cervical cancer.
- Colposcopy: A detailed examination of the cervix using a magnifying instrument.
- Cervical biopsy: A procedure in which a small tissue sample is collected and examined for abnormal or precancerous changes.
Cryosurgery is most suitable when the entire affected area can be seen and adequately treated with the freezing instrument.
If abnormal cells extend deep into the cervical canal or if invasive cancer is suspected, another treatment, such as a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), may be more appropriate.
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