title: [Cryosurgery: method and results].
abstract: To be able to fully appreciate cryosurgery at its present stage, the chronologic development with some striking characteristics is recorded, defined, and the present applicability in the various specialties explained. According to the cryobiologic principles a hypothesis is presented for the dermatologist which includes description of cell processes during freezing and the thawing procedure until cell necrosis. Consequently, a postulate for successful cryosurgery can be presented. Description is given of the various freezing agents and the instruments used, with assessment of usability of both probe systems - open system and half-open system - in dermatology. The currently required control possibilities, moulage, temperature control, histological control, and the clinical employment of the cold injury to the skin are described in their various phases. The results are exemplified, and the future utility of cryosurgery is assessed.
mesh_terms: D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000601:surgery; D003452:Cryosurgery / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008545:Melanoma / Q000601:surgery; D011379:Prognosis; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D014860:Warts / Q000601:surgery
vernacular_title: Kryochirurgie: Methodik und Ergebnisse.