Cryosurgery For Your Pet

Frequently used in people, especially by your dermatologist, cryosurgery is also used in dogs and cats. It is a safe treatment alternative to traditional surgery and has proven to be very successful for a variety of conditions. It uses liquid nitrogen or nitrous oxide to freeze unwanted tissue and consequently destroys it. Cryosurgery can be considered an option as long as the issue is on the outer layer of the skin. This makes it a good choice for tumors, cysts, skin tags, and other superficial skin disorders. Depending on the size and location of the area to be frozen, your pet may or may not need to be tranquilized or anesthetized. On minor issues such as skin tags or small skin growths, this procedure may be performed in the office without any sedation needed. Because the technique freezes the offending tissue, there is very little discomfort after the procedure and usually there is no need for sutures.

Some of the benefits include not having to be anesthetized in most cases, which is a very large benefit for elderly or sensitive pets. In addition, small skin tumors can bother your pet when they see and feel them and often times when left untreated, they can go on to rupture, become infected, or even malignant if not removed.

Finally, cryosurgery is often less expensive than a regular surgical procedure!