Name of the Procedure:

Destruction of lesion(s), penis (e.g., condyloma, papilloma, molluscum contagiosum, herpetic vesicle), simple; cryosurgery

Summary

In this procedure, abnormal growths or lesions on the penis are removed using cryosurgery. Cryosurgery involves freezing the lesions with a special substance, typically liquid nitrogen, which destroys the problematic tissue.

Purpose

The procedure addresses lesions such as condyloma (genital warts), papilloma, molluscum contagiosum, and herpetic vesicles on the penis. The goal is to remove these lesions effectively and safely, relieving symptoms and preventing the spread of infections.

Indications

The procedure is indicated for patients who have visible lesions on the penis that could be causing symptoms like itching, pain, or bleeding, or are cosmetically displeasing. It is particularly appropriate for lesions that have been diagnosed as benign but need removal due to recurrence or persistence.

Preparation

• Follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider, which may include fasting or adjusting medications.
• Inform the doctor of any allergies, especially to anesthetics or freezing agents.
• No extensive diagnostic tests are typically required; a clinical examination usually suffices.

Procedure Description

1. The area of the penis affected is cleaned and possibly numbed with a local anesthetic if necessary.
2. Liquid nitrogen is applied to the lesion using a cotton swab, spray device, or a cryoprobe.
3. The freezing process creates an ice ball around the lesion, causing the cells to die.
4. The frozen tissue is allowed to thaw naturally.
5. This cycle may be repeated if necessary to ensure complete destruction of the lesion.

Duration

The entire procedure usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is commonly performed in an outpatient clinic or a dermatology office.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or urologist performing the procedure
• Nurse or medical assistant providing support

Risks and Complications

• Temporary discomfort or pain
• Swelling or blistering at the treated site
• Infection at the site of treatment (rare)
• Scarring or changes in skin pigmentation (rare).

Benefits

• Effective removal of penile lesions
• Minimal downtime and quick recovery
• Reduced risk of lesion recurrence when properly managed.

Recovery

• Keep the treated area clean and dry.
• Follow any specific post-procedure care instructions provided by the healthcare provider, which may include the application of topical ointments or dressings.
• Most patients can return to normal activities almost immediately, but it is advised to avoid sexual activity until the area is fully healed.
• A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure complete removal of the lesion.

Alternatives

• Surgical excision: involves cutting out the lesion and may require stitches.
• Laser removal: uses focused light to destroy the lesion and may be more expensive.
• Topical treatments: include creams or solutions that can be applied at home but may take longer to be effective.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, you might feel a sensation of cold or mild stinging as the lesion is frozen.
• After the procedure, there might be some mild discomfort, swelling, or blistering, which usually resolves within a few days.
• Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Overall, cryosurgery is a quick and effective method for the removal of penile lesions with manageable discomfort and minimal downtime.