How to Make a Wick: A Controlled and Accurate Cryotherapy Technique for Benign Lesions

Several cryotherapy techniques are used to treat benign conditions in pediatric dermatology. These include a long-tipped cotton swab, portable sprayer can ("cryo gun"), and forceps, amongst others. However, all modalities result in peri-procedural pain and often emotional distress. We present a modification of the cotton swab cryotherapy technique by making a wick from a rayon-tipped OB/GYN swab. This technique may minimize patient emotional distress, while achieving a controlled and efficacious freeze.