Analyses, examinations, procedures

Cryotherapy, also known as cold therapy, is a medical procedure in which liquid nitrogen is used to freeze warts and corns. A dermatologist or dermatology nurse may also recommend cryotherapy for other skin issues (prior consultation is necessary).

The procedure for cryotherapy of warts and corns can be done without a prior doctor’s consultation.

Good to know about the treatment of warts and corns:

• Liquid nitrogen causes a cold sensation on the skin, which may resemble a slight pricking or tingling.
• After the procedure, you may experience pain or a tingling sensation, which usually subsides within a few minutes to a couple of hours.
• Blisters may form on the skin after the procedure, which typically heal within one to two weeks when a scab forms over the blister.
• Complete removal of the wart may require repeat freezing every one to three weeks, three to six times as needed, sometimes more.

Cryotherapy for the treatment of warts and corns is not performed if:

• the patient has Raynaud’s syndrome;
• the patient is under 8 years old;
• the patient experiences a urticarial reaction to cold (i.e. cold allergy).