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Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a simple, safe, and effective treatment for numerous dermatologic conditions. It can be done very affordably in a DPC clinic. Descriptions and videos for this procedure abound online and in books such as Pfenninger and Fowler’s Procedures for Primary Care.
Traditionally, liquid nitrogen is used to perform cryotherapy. A storage container for liquid nitrogen (called a Dewar) is a costly piece of equipment, generally several hundred dollars. Liquid nitrogen refills are relatively affordable (generally $20-40.) However, the nitrogen boils off usually in a few weeks regardless of how much is used. Tools for applying liquid nitrogen vary from a styrofoam cup and a cotton-tipped applicator to expensive pressurized spray tools.
One way many DPC doctors have lowered costs for performing cryotherapy is by using pressurized canned air. Can’s of “Medical Freeze” are available online for under $30 and can be used numerous times each. They are often used with otoscope speculums to focus the cold on the lesion being treated.
As always, getting a mentor who performs these procedures to help you find affordable equipment and answer questions is highly recommended, and easily done through social media and DPCA message groups.
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Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a simple, safe, and effective treatment for numerous dermatologic conditions. It can be done very affordably in a DPC clinic. Descriptions and videos for this procedure abound online and in books such as Pfenninger and Fowler’s Procedures for Primary Care.
Traditionally, liquid nitrogen is used to perform cryotherapy. A storage container for liquid nitrogen (called a Dewar) is a costly piece of equipment, generally several hundred dollars. Liquid nitrogen refills are relatively affordable (generally $20-40.) However, the nitrogen boils off usually in a few weeks regardless of how much is used. Tools for applying liquid nitrogen vary from a styrofoam cup and a cotton-tipped applicator to expensive pressurized spray tools.
One way many DPC doctors have lowered costs for performing cryotherapy is by using pressurized canned air. Can’s of “Medical Freeze” are available online for under $30 and can be used numerous times each. They are often used with otoscope speculums to focus the cold on the lesion being treated.
As always, getting a mentor who performs these procedures to help you find affordable equipment and answer questions is highly recommended, and easily done through social media and DPCA message groups.