Welcome to cryosurgery.co.uk

Your cryosurgery questions answered

• What is cryosurgery and what is it used to treat?

  Invasive cryosurgery is established in the United States and is becoming more popular within the UK. It is a relatively safe and effective treatment for a number of conditions. Three common conditions that can be effectively treated by means of cryosurgery are Morton's neuroma, plantar fasciitis and plantar fibroma.

  Additionally, cryosurgery can be used for other forms of more complex chronic foot pain, because the treatment de-sensitises nerves. The treatment is very low-risk and minimally invasive, so patients can return to work rapidly.

• Who will undertake the treatment?

  Mr McCulloch, a Consultant Podiatric Surgeon with over 20 years of experience, offers cryosurgery at The London Podiatry Centre. Mr McCulloch obtained his cryosurgery training in the USA under the expert guidance of Dr Peter Wishnie.

• Is cryosurgery painful?

  The actual procedure is pain-free due to the administration of a local anaesthetic. The local anaesthetic block is generally considered less painful than a dental injection. Immediate post treatment pain varies, but is easily controlled with standard painkillers such as Ibuprofen.

• How do I ensure that my podiatrist is properly qualified to perform the procedure?

  The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists, the largest representative body for podiatrists in the UK, only recognises Podiatric Surgeons with the qualifications FCPodS to carry out invasive cryosurgery. As an experienced Consultant Surgeon, Mr McCulloch offers the full range of surgical foot procedures and as such is able to provide a balanced view on the appropriateness of cryosurgery when compared to other treatment techniques.

• Should cryosurgery be performed under ultrasound?

  Yes! This is the only way of making sure that the site of treatment is accurately identified. Mr McCulloch has extensive experience using ultrasound technology.

• How safe is cryosurgery?

  Complications from cryosurgery are uncommon. The technique is minimally invasive with little to no scarring and suturing is not required. The technique is invasive and there is therefore a small risk of complications such as infection.

• How long does the procedure take?

  The actual procedure takes 6 minutes and patients are generally able to go home within an hour of attending the surgery.

• Can I have the procedure during my first visit?

  This may be possible following a telephone consultation with the Centre's practitioners. You would not be able to drive home after treatment as your foot will not have normal sensation for up to 20 hours due the administration of local anaesthetic. The Centre would send you comprehensive information on the procedure prior to your attendance and a final decision on whether to proceed will be made when you attend for your pre-treatment assessment.

• Will I need stitches?

  No. A steri-strip plaster is generally sufficient.

• How does cryosurgery work?

  The application of extreme cold alters the physiology of nerves so that they effectively become desensitised. The treatment may also work by creating an inflammatory response that triggers healing.

• When can I go back to work?

  It is advisable to rest and limit activity for a few days but if your job is sedentary you can return to work the next day.

• Will I need more than one treatment?

  A second episode of treatment may be required. This would usually be determined about 6 weeks after the initial procedure.

• Is cryosurgery covered by my private medical insurance?

  Cryosurgery is recognised by a number of insurance accompanies but this does depend on your individual policy. It is important that you call the Centre before calling your insurance company so that we can provide you with the correct provider centre and procedure codes.

• How much does the procedure cost?

  The cost of cryosurgery is £1000.