The cryotherapy unit contains liquid nitrogen, which is extremely cold. Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen) treatment of a flat wart on the hand.
Liquid nitrogen can be applied by spray device, as seen here, or delivered by a cotton-tipped applicator. The white area in the photograph is the frozen, or "frosted", wart that has just been treated by liquid nitrogen spray.
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Cryosurgery 

Picture of Cryosurgery: The cryotherapy unit contains liquid nitrogen, which is extremely cold. Divider line
The cryotherapy unit contains liquid nitrogen, which is extremely cold.
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Preparation / Typical Procedure
There is no preparation needed. Rarely, patients who are very sensitive to pain may apply numbing cream for 30–90 minutes before treatment.

One of the major advantages of this simple, low-risk procedure is that it can be used at any time during a visit to a doctor. For small lesions, liquid nitrogen can be applied using a cotton-tipped applicator, metal probe, or with a spray in fewer than 30 seconds. Larger lesions may require longer freezing cycles lasting 30–60 seconds. Because liquid nitrogen is extremely cold, the treated area turns white from frost. Most patients experience temporary pain during the treatment, with a minor throbbing sensation after the procedure.
Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008