Cryoprecipitate: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

Cryoprecipitation therapy is a medical procedure that uses extremely cold temperatures to freeze and destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. Typically, this technique is used to treat various skin ailments such as warts, moles, and skin cancers.

There are different types of cryoprecipitation therapy, including:

• Liquid Nitrogen Cryotherapy: This is the most common type of cryoprecipitation therapy. It involves the application of liquid nitrogen, which is extremely cold, to the affected area. The cells in the region freeze and die as a result.
• Cryosurgery: This type of cryoprecipitation therapy involves the use of a specialized instrument that delivers liquid nitrogen or another freezing agent to the affected area. This is typically used for internal tumors or for the removal of abnormal tissue in hard-to-reach areas.
• Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: This type of cryoprecipitation therapy uses a patient's own blood plasma that is rich in platelets to promote healing and tissue regeneration.
• Cryoablation: This type of cryoprecipitation therapy uses a needle or probe to deliver extreme cold to the affected area, to destroy abnormal tissue. This method is used to treat the cancer of the liver, kidneys, and prostate.
• Cryoneurolysis: This type of cryoprecipitation therapy uses extreme cold to destroy nerve tissue, and it is used to treat chronic pain conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia, headaches, and other chronic pain conditions.

The benefits of Cryoprecipitation therapy include:

• Removal of abnormal or diseased tissue: Cryoprecipitation therapy is used to remove abnormal or diseased tissue such as warts, moles, and skin cancers.
• Preservation of healthy tissue: The procedure is designed to target only the affected tissue, preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
• Minimally invasive: Cryoprecipitation therapy is a minimally invasive process that results in minor bleeding and scarring.
• Quick recovery time: Most patients return to regular activities after a few days of surgery, thus recovery time is usually short.
• Cost-effective: Cryoprecipitation therapy is often less expensive than other forms of treatment, such as surgery.
• Can be used for a wide range of conditions: Cryoprecipitation therapy is used to treat a wide range of conditions including warts, moles, skin cancer, and internal tumors.
• Can be used with other treatments: Cryoprecipitation therapy can be combined with other treatments to achieve optimal results.

• Cryoprecipitation therapy is done to remove abnormal or diseased tissue, such as warts, moles, and skin cancers, and to preserve healthy tissue.
• It is also used to treat internal tumors and for the removal of abnormal tissue in hard-to-reach areas.
• This procedure is considered as an alternative to surgery for some conditions, as it is less invasive and has fewer side effects and it is a cost-effective treatment option.
• Cryoprecipitation therapy is also utilised to treat chronic pain issues including trigeminal neuralgia, headaches, and others.

The risks of Cryoprecipitation therapy include:

• Scarring: Scarring may occur after cryoprecipitation therapy, notably on the face or other visible regions of the body.
• Infection: The treated area is vulnerable to infection during the recovery period and proper care is essential to prevent infection.
• Pain: Patients may feel pain and discomfort during and after the process.
• Numbness or tingling: There is a chance that the treated area will feel numb or tingly for a short time or permanently.
• Discoloration: The treated area's colour may change, becoming lighter or darker than the skin around it.
• Blisters: The treated region may develop blisters; if these blisters break, an infection may occur.
• Tissue damage: Cryoprecipitation therapy can cause damage to healthy tissue surrounding the abnormal or diseased tissue.
• Allergic reactions: There is a chance that the freezing agent used in the procedure will cause an allergic reaction.

To prepare for Cryoprecipitation therapy, it is important to:

• Discuss your medical history with your doctor: Your doctor should be made aware of any medications you are taking, allergies you may have, and any skin issues or past treatments you may have had.
• Avoid sun exposure: In the days before the procedure, avoid exposing the treated region to the sun. The treated region may become darker or lighter than the untreated skin after exposure to sunlight.
• Moisturize the area: Apply moisturizer to the area that will be treated in the days leading up to the procedure to help keep the skin supple and reduce the risk of scarring.
• Arrange for transportation: Cryoprecipitation therapy is often performed as an outpatient procedure, however in the event that you are unable to drive yourself, you should make travel arrangements to and from the operation.
• Pay attention to your doctor's instructions: Your doctor may provide additional advice, such as avoiding taking certain drugs or supplements before surgery.

During the procedure, a supercooled liquid (usually nitrogen) is applied directly to an affected area. This causes a freezing of the tissue, allowing the formation of tiny ice crystals which stimulate a local immune response. The stimulation directs an influx of white blood cells to the area and helps flush out any extraneous substances or toxins present within the system.

• A complete medical history should be taken from the patient.
• Blood tests should be performed to assess their overall health, electrolyte levels, liver and kidney functions.
• An infection should be ruled out, as cryoprecipitation therapy is contraindicated in patients with active infections.
• The patient’s platelet count should be monitored closely before proceeding with the therapy.

• The site is prepared for access.
• Aseptic technique is applied to the injection site.
• Cryoprecipitate is thawed according to instructions for use.
• Appropriate equipment is assembled and sterilized if necessary according to standard protocols.
• A small, fine-tipped needle is used for withdrawal of the cryoprecipitate from the container if necessary and to inject it slowly into the tissue at or near the area of concern, followed by appropriate compression as needed per protocol guidelines as directed by practitioner orders.
• The injection site is monitored for appropriate response during and following completion of injection procedure.

• Bandage is applied to the affected area.
• Ice packs are placed over bandage to reduce swelling and provide comfort to the patient.
• Any drainage or bleeding is observed and reported by a medical professional on duty immediately after the procedure has been completed.
• Patient’s progress is tracked closely with regular follow-up visits to assess healing progress and record any additional complaints or concerns from patients that might require further care or attention.

The cost of Cryoprecipitation therapy in India depends on the type and complexity of the procedure, the patient's medical condition and the expertise and experience of the doctor performing it.

Generally, a session could range anywhere from INR 5,000 or so to INR 15,000 or more.

Following cryoprecipitation therapy, it is critical to have a well-balanced diet that includes:

• Protein: Eating protein-rich foods such as chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes can help to repair and rebuild tissues that have been damaged during the procedure.
• Fruits and vegetables: Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can provide essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs to heal.
• Whole grains: Eating whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread can provide energy and help to repair damaged tissues.
• Healthy fats: Eating foods that are rich in healthy fats such as avocado, olive oil, and nuts can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Fluids: Drinking enough of fluids, such as water, may help remove toxins from the body and maintain hydration.

It is essential to avoid processed foods, fried foods, and sugar-rich foods, since they may hinder the healing process and cause inflammation. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided for the first 24 hours after the procedure.

When done by a skilled and experienced healthcare professional, cryoprecipitation therapy is usually regarded as safe.

The procedure has been used for many years to treat a wide range of conditions, and most patients experience minimal complications.

Cryoprecipitation therapy may cause some pain or discomfort during and after the procedure, but the procedure is typically not considered to be very painful.

Before the process, the region to be treated is numbed with a local anaesthetic, which helps to decrease pain and discomfort.

Time required for Cryoprecipitation therapy recovery varies by technique and medical condition. The size, location, number of sessions, and patient's healing process might all affect recovery duration.

For minor procedures such as the removal of warts or moles, recovery time is typically minimal, and most patients are able to return to normal activities within a few days.

For more invasive procedures such as the removal of skin cancer, recovery time may be longer, and patients may need to take time off work or other activities.

• Pain, swelling and bruising at the treatment site.
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Low-grade fever
• Joint stiffness
• Muscle soreness and weakness.
• Numbness or tingling in the area of treatment.

• Keep the treated area clean and dry: Clean the treated area with mild soap and water, and pat it dry. Avoid getting the area wet or exposing it to water for the first 24 hours after the procedure.
• Avoid sun exposure: Avoid sun exposure to the treated area for at least a week after the procedure, or as long as your doctor advises. Sun exposure can cause the treated area to become darker or lighter than the surrounding skin.
• Apply moisturizer: Apply moisturizer to the treated area to help keep the skin supple and reduce the risk of scarring.
• Visit your doctor for follow-ups: Your doctor will schedule follow-up sessions to check your progress and ensure optimal healing.
• Be cautious of side effects: Call your doctor quickly if you encounter any unexpected symptoms or difficulties.

Cryoprecipitation therapy is a promising new treatment option for many challenging medical conditions. Although cryoprecipitation therapy is a relatively new approach, the promise of its efficacy and safety makes it an attractive option for patients. The treatment is non-invasive, well-tolerated, and may have long-term benefits.