Cryotherapy is a medical procedure performed in the office by a retinal specialist. A small probe is utilized to transmit extreme cold temperatures to the retina to freeze abnormal blood vessels or retinal tears. This treatment may also be used to treat small retinal detachments, retinal tumors, lesions, and other retinopathies.
Prior to treatment, a topical numbing eye drop is instilled followed by a local injectable anesthetic into the surface of the eye. This ensures the patient will be comfortable during the procedure.
After treatment is performed, the patient may experience some redness, swelling, and mild discomfort in the eye. This can usually be alleviated with Tylenol© or Advil©. Healing may take 10-14 days to be complete and vision may be blurred during that time.
Following the procedure, the doctor will discuss what to expect during recovery, when to schedule a follow-up appointment, and when to resume normal activities.