kylmäkaapimisesta

Kylmäkaapiminen, known in English as cryosurgery or cryotherapy, is a medical procedure that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. The cold is typically applied using liquid nitrogen, which has a boiling point of -196 degrees Celsius. This extremely low temperature causes ice crystals to form within and around the cells of the target tissue, leading to cell death through various mechanisms including dehydration, rupture of cell membranes, and disruption of cellular processes.

The procedure is commonly used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including warts, precancerous lesions like actinic keratoses, and some types of skin cancer. It can also be employed for other medical applications such as treating cervical dysplasia or certain eye conditions. The application of cold can be done directly by spraying liquid nitrogen onto the tissue or by using a cryoprobe. The duration and temperature of the application depend on the size, depth, and type of lesion being treated.

Following cryosurgery, the treated area typically becomes inflamed and may develop blisters. The tissue then sloughs off, and new, healthy tissue forms in its place. While generally considered safe, potential side effects can include pain, swelling, blistering, temporary or permanent changes in skin color (hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation), and scarring. The specific risks and benefits are discussed with the patient by their healthcare provider before the procedure.