FAQ

Both Verruca-Freeze^® and Verruca-Freeze^® H are FDA-approved, portable cryosurgical devices used by physicians and veterinarians to remove superficial skin lesions in an outpatient setting. Their key differences are highlighted below.

Verruca-Freeze^® is approved for the treatment of 21 types of common skin lesions and offers a colder freezing temperature at -70°C, making it ideal for treating deep or calloused lesions, such as plantar warts. Verruca-Freeze^® also includes the option to utilize either bud or cone applicators.

Verruca-Freeze^® H is approved for the treatment of 9 types of skin lesions via applicator buds that, once “charged,” reach a freezing temperature of -55ºC. Verruca-Freeze^® H is ideal for treating lesions on thinner skin, such as the face and genitalia, as well as use in pediatric patients.

Verruca-Freeze^® products do not contain any liquid nitrogen. Instead, they use a proprietary blend of refrigerated gases that freeze at -70°C (Verruca-Freeze^®) and -55°C (Verruca-Freeze^® H). Unlike liquid nitrogen—which reaches -196°C and requires careful handling due to its extreme cold—Verruca-Freeze^® products offer a safer alternative, especially for use on thin or sensitive skin, where liquid nitrogen can pose a risk of long-term nerve damage.

Treatment with Verruca-Freeze^® products achieve the same results as liquid nitrogen: freezing of tissue, iceball formation, tissue destruction, scabbing, sloughing of dead tissue, and eventual regrowth of healthy skin.

In addition to being effective, Verruca-Freeze^® products are highly convenient. There’s no need for bulkyand expensive tanks or dewars, no need to schedule gas refills, and no loss of product due to evaporation. Each product is packaged in a compact, portable aerosol canister that can be disposed of with regular waste once empty—saving time, space, and money.

Verruca-Freeze^® offers the most comprehensive range of product configurations at the lowest cost per freeze of any portable cryosurgical system on the market. With multiple canister sizes and accessory options, there’s a solution to fit every practice—regardless of size or patient volume.

While many canister-based cryosurgical systems use similar freezing techniques and applicator styles, our applicators are what truly set us apart.

Our CryoBud^® applicators feature a hollow handle that inserts directly into the nozzle for easy, one-handed operation. Competing products with double-sided buds often require two-handed use and can result in wasted product from the unused side.

Our CryoCone^® applicators (compatible with Verruca-Freeze^® only) are uniquely designed with a two-part construction and a flexible sealing tip to minimize leakage and maximize freezing precision. Each cone is color-coded for quick size identification and—unlike most single-use accessories—CryoCones^® applicators are reusable, saving both time and money.

In short, Verruca-Freeze^® provides a simpler, more effective, and more economical cryosurgical experience from start to finish.

Verruca-Freeze^® products reach significantly colder temperatures than over-the-counter treatments, making them far more effective at fully destroying benign skin lesions. Most warts are deeply rooted and require freezing to at least -50°C for complete removal. OTC products typically do not reach these temperatures, meaning the wart may appear gone but often regrows—leading to a frustrating cycle of retreatment.

While at-home products may seem convenient, they often require multiple applications over an extended period. In contrast, Verruca-Freeze^® products are designed for professional use and can remove lesions in as few as 1 treatment.

In addition to their clinical effectiveness, Verruca-Freeze^® and Verruca-Freeze^® H offer more treatment options and flexible purchasing configurations, making them the preferred choice of healthcare professionals.

Note: Verruca-Freeze^® products are intended for use by licensed medical and veterinary professionals only.

When applied correctly, Verruca-Freeze^® reaches a freezing temperature of -70°C—making it the coldest canister-based cryosurgical product available. Verruca-Freeze^® H reaches -55°C, providing an effective yet gentler option for treating lesions on thinner or more sensitive skin.

Most lesions require a freezing temperature of at least -50°C for complete destruction. Both Verruca-Freeze^® and Verruca-Freeze^® H exceed this threshold, ensuring effective results without the extreme intensity of liquid nitrogen, which freezes at -196°C and carries a higher risk of tissue damage.

The number of treatments, or freezes, per canister depends on factors such as lesion size, applicator type, and spray control. Based on an average lesion size of 5mm, you can expect the following number of treatments:

If you’re treating smaller lesions, your canister may last longer. Conversely, larger lesions may reduce the number of treatments.

To maximize the number of uses:

• Apply gentle, controlled pressure to the trigger to avoid wasting cryogen.
• Minimize overspray by keeping the extender tube close to the bud tip during saturation. *Verruca-Freeze^® non-inserted method only.

Proper technique is key to getting the most value from each canister.

Reimbursement for cryosurgical treatment of benign lesions typically ranges from $150 to $300, and can be as high as $2,000, depending on lesion type and location. In many cases, a single treatment can cover the cost of your canister.

Common CPT codes for cryosurgery can be found in the table below.

Each Verruca-Freeze^® product includes an informational CPT code sheet with national average reimbursement rates, updated annually. If you need the latest version, please contact us to request a copy.

Note: Reimbursement rates vary by state and insurance provider. For the most accurate information, contact your insurance carrier or utilize the resources below:

• Private Insurance: Contact Optum Coding for a customized fee analyzer.
• Medicare: Use the CMS Physician Fee Schedule Tool.

Underbilling can cost your practice thousands annually. To maximize reimbursement, bill at the 90th percentile for private insurance and use the limiting charge for Medicare patients.

Veterinarians typically set rates for treatment with cryosurgery based on several factors that affect the overall complexity of the procedure. The following examples can be used to form a baseline pricing structure for your clinic.

Lesion Size

• 1–5mm: $50–75+
• 6–25mm: $75–100+
• 25mm+ (e.g., Equine Lesions): $150–200+

Lesion Type & Location

• Simple Removal (e.g., Skin Tag, Papilloma, Sebaceous Adenoma): $50–75+
• Complex Removal (e.g., Body/Eyelid Tumor, Distichia, Oral Lesion): $100–200+

Number of Treatments

• Multiple lesions treated in one visit (e.g., Skin Tags): $50–75 flat rate for first lesion and $10–40 for each additional lesion
• Follow-Up: $10–20 less than initial

Anesthesia or Sedation

• If administered: $150–200+

Ultimately, you know your clients best and should consider what pet owners in your area can afford and/or would be willing to pay. For example, clinics in rural areas will typically charge less than clinics in highly populated or affluent areas.

Verruca-Freeze^® has an indefinite shelf life due to its positive shut-off valve. This valve prevents leakage and evaporation while protecting the cryogen from contamination and decomposition—ensuring long-term reliability and no product waste over time. Verruca-Freeze^® H has a 4-year shelf life, which is one year longer than other “H”-type cryosurgical products on the market.

Verruca-Freeze^® is non-flammable. Verruca-Freeze^® H, however, contains propane and therefore is flammable.

Verruca-Freeze^® and Verruca-Freeze^® H canisters should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Canisters should never be exposed to temperatures above 120°F.

We recommend storing all components in their original packaging (or CryoBag), placed inside a medical supply cabinet or closet for added protection.

Important Safety Note:
Verruca-Freeze^® canisters are equipped with a pressure release valve on the bottom. If exposed to temperatures above 120°F, the canister may become overpressurized and trigger this safety mechanism. If that occurs, immediately move the canister to a safe area, away from people, and allow it to fully discharge the contents.

Transportation in Warm Conditions:
If transporting canisters in hot weather or a warm vehicle, place them in a cooler or another insulated space where temperatures can be kept below 120°F.

Yes, Verruca-Freeze^® canisters may be taken on an airplane, but must be packed in checked luggage—they cannot be carried on.

Before traveling, consider both your current climate and your destination. Although airplane cargo holds are typically temperature controlled, checked bags may be exposed to direct sunlight on the tarmac, especially in hot weather. If the canister is exposed to temperatures above 120°F, the internal pressure may rise and trigger the safety release valve—causing the canister to burst.

For international travel, research aerosol transport regulations for both your airline and destination country. Some international carriers and small aircrafts may impose strict size limits or prohibit aerosol containers entirely, even in checked luggage.

To reduce risk in hot climates, we recommend packing the canister in a cooler bag or insulated case.

To request a current copy of our Safety Data Sheet, please contact us.

Yes, Verruca-Freeze^® products are authorized for use by licensed medical and veterinary professionals only.

 Both Verruca-Freeze^® and Verruca-Freeze^® H are FDA-approved for the treatment of benign skin lesions, including:

• Common Warts (Verruca vulgaris)
• Flat Warts (Verruca plana)
• Plantar Warts (Verruca plantaris)
• Genital Warts (Condyloma acuminatum)
• Skin Tags (Acrochordons)
• Age Spots (Lentigos)
• Actinic Keratoses
• Seborrheic Keratoses
• Molluscum Contagiosum

Verruca-Freeze^® can be used to treat a total of 21 types of lesions, while Verruca-Freeze^® H is approved to treat 9 types of lesions. Click here to view the full list of treatable lesions and learn more about each of the different types.

Veterinary Treatment:
Verruca-Freeze^® and Verruca-Freeze^® H are also widely used to treat skin lesions on small, large, and exotic animals. Commonly treated lesions include:

• Papillomas (Warts)
• Skin Tags
• Sebaceous Adenomas
• Sarcoids
• Distichiasis
• Trichiasis
• Anal Growths
• Follicular Cysts
• Lick Granulomas
• Eye Tumors
• Fibroids.

Click here to learn more about treatable lesions in animals.

No, the use of anesthesia or numbing is not required when using Verruca-Freeze^® products. However, a topical anesthetic cream may be recommended for patients who are particularly sensitive or anxious about the procedure.

Verruca-Freeze^® products are self-anesthetizing, so although patients may initially feel a brief sting or burning sensation, this typically subsides within seconds as the area becomes numb.

Cryogen should always be applied using a designated applicator to ensure safe and targeted treatment.

Verruca-Freeze^® is applied using either a CryoBud^® or CryoCone^® applicator. Verruca-Freeze^® H is only applied using a CryoBud^® applicator.

Important: Never apply Verruca-Freeze^® products using an open spray.
Doing so can damage healthy surrounding tissue. Applicators are specifically designed to focus the freeze on the lesion and protect adjacent skin from unintended exposure.

CryoBud^® applicators are recommended for:

• Bony or hard-to-reach areas
• Sensitive or thin skin, including the face, neck, head, and genitals
• Hands and feet
• Pediatric patients

CryoBuds^® applicators provide precise application without the risk of overspray or leakage, making them a safer option for delicate or irregular surfaces.

CryoCone^® applicators are recommended for:

• Fleshy or fatty tissue, such as the abdomen, back, or thighs
• Areas where a tight, consistent seal can be achieved.

Do not use CryoCone^® applicators on bony areas, as achieving a proper seal is difficult and can lead to cryogen leakage or damage to surrounding tissue.

Note: Verruca-Freeze^® H is always applied using a CryoBud^® applicator. Verruca-Freeze^® H is not intended for use with our CryoCone^® applicators.

After saturating the CryoBud^® to the first drip point, wait approximately 15 seconds before applying it to the lesion. During this time, the bud temperature drops to its optimal freezing temperature, and you will see crystallization forming on the foam tip, indicating it is sufficiently cold for effective treatment.

General Guidelines:

• Thin skin or sensitive areas (face, eyes, ears, genitals, or extremities): Freeze for 20–25 seconds, followed by a minimum thaw time of 40 seconds.

Tip: It’s safer to under-freeze in these areas—treatment can always be repeated if needed.

• Larger lesions (≥6mm): Freeze for up to 40 seconds, with a minimum thaw time of 40 seconds.
• Thick or resistant lesions (e.g., plantar warts): Perform up to 3 consecutive freeze–thaw cycles in a single visit, allowing at least 40 seconds of thaw time between each cycle.

For detailed, lesion-specific guidance, refer to the Instruction Manual provided with your device or the chart printed inside every product box. Additionally, you can visit our Resources page to download training materials and manuals.

Important Note:

• “Freeze time” refers to how long the cryogen is in direct contact with the lesion—not how long you spray the cryogen.
• Regardless of the applicator used, cryogen should only be dispensed, or sprayed, for a maximum of 3–6 seconds.
• Prolonged exposure to cryogen may cause permanent and irreversible damage to the skin, including but not limited to severe frostbite and/or burns, hypopigmentation, and nerve damage.

Buds can be reused to treat multiple lesions on the same patient; however, buds are NOT interchangeable between patients. Buds should be discarded after use to avoid the risk of cross-contamination with another patient. (Note: The medium and large buds are designed to hold a freeze charge for 90-120 seconds, meaning 2-3 lesions can be frozen on the same patient.)

Cones are reusable but must be disinfected between patients. Refer to question below for details on how to clean cones.

Cones should be disinfected prior to initial use and after each use on a patient. According to CDC Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization, Verruca-Freeze cones are classified as noncritical medical devices and can be disinfected using an EPA-registered intermediate-level or low-level disinfectant (CaviCide® or CaviWipes™ by Metrex are highly recommended). Follow all applicable instructions on the disinfectant product label. Contact time must be at least 1 minute to ensure disinfection. Cones can also be autoclaved on a plastic setting. Refer to autoclave instructions for more information. (Caution: Autoclaving cones may reduce their shelf life.)

Click here for a printable cone cleaning guide.

The freeze-thaw method is the standard for cryosurgery. The process is to first freeze the lesion and then allow it to naturally thaw back to normal temperature. Thaw time is usually 30–40 seconds. A frozen lesion should not be touched while it is thawing as this would prematurely warm the lesion and reverse the treatment.

The double freeze-thaw method is the process of treating a lesion with two consecutive freeze-thaw cycles. This method is often used for deep or difficult lesions, such as plantar warts, as well as lesions over 7mm in size. Ensure the lesion has fully thawed from the first freeze before applying a second freeze.

After treatment, patients can resume all normal activities, including bathing. Once a scab or blister forms over the treated area, it is recommended to not pick at or irritate it. Every Verruca-Freeze prouct includes a tear pad with Post-Treatment Patient Instructions that details what to expect and how the patient should care for the treated area. If additional sheets are needed, please contact us to request an additional tear pad or visit our Resources page to download and print these instructions.

For most patients, only one treatment is necessary. Some lesions may, however, require a second treatment. A follow-up visit is always recommended.

Any freeze can be reversed by immediately placing your hand over the frozen area. The warmth from your hand will quickly thaw the frozen area and prevent a full freeze from being achieved.

Safety in pregnancy has not been established.

Every Verruca-Freeze product includes detailed Instructions for Use as well as guidance on treatable types of lesions, treatment times for each type, and which CPT codes to use for reimbursement. We recommend thoroughly reading through all literature provided, reviewing the content on our Resources page, and watching our Instructional Videos prior to first-time use. All kits also include a practice pad, which can be used to perfect the technique before treating patients. We do not offer any in-person training. However, you should find that the cryosurgery procedure is relatively simple and easy to learn.

In addition to the double freeze-thaw method, a technique called ballooning is often used. This is most commonly used by podiatrists when treating plantar warts and veterinarians when treating sarcoids on large animals. The ballooning technique involves injection of lidocaine with epinephrine beneath the lesion. This injection seperates the lesion from the blood supply and causes vaso constriction of the blood vessels, effectively reducing the heat sink and allowing the freeze to penetrate deeper and last longer.

Verruca-Freeze products can be purchased directly from our online Shop or through your preferred medical supply distributor.

We reccommend that first-time users start out with a Verruca-Freeze Kit, which includes a full set of cones and buds as well as a practice pad for self-training. All Kits include the same amount of applicators, so select a Kit based on the number of treatments, or freezes, desired. Keep in mind that the actual number of treatments achieved per canister will vary depending on the size of lesions treated and the number of practice sessions performed. We suggest using the smallest size applicator for practice sessions in order to conserve cryogen. Replacement Canisters and applicators may be purchased seperately at a lower cost.

No, we do not offer any free samples of Verruca-Freeze. Our products have a low-upfront cost and high reimbursement rates, so you can recoup your investment in as few as 1 to 2 treatments! We are confident you will experience complete satisfaction with Verruca-Freeze, and the additional revenue it generates for your practice will prove worth your while.

Verruca-Freeze canisters are pressurized aerosols, which are considered Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) but in a limited quantity. There are no HAZMAT fees associated with Verruca-Freeze products. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) requires ground-only shipment for our products, meaning we cannot offer expedited or overnight delivery and shipping to certain states or regions may not be possible. See our Shipping Policy for more information.

All orders are processed and shipped within 1-2 business days, and the average shipping time for ground service is approximately 1-5 business days. We are proud to offer free shipping on all orders within the contiguous United States! For more information, please see our Shipping Policy.

Promo codes can be applied in your cart or at checkout.

All sales are final once an order has shipped. We do not offer exchanges, returns or refunds for any products purchased on our website or through a distributor. Any order changes or cancellation requests must be made before the order is shipped. Once an order has shipped, we cannot make any changes.

If there are mistakes with your order, or products arrive defective/damaged at the time of receipt, we will make it right by:

• Sending you replacement parts or accessories, or
• Replacing the entire product
• And we will cover the cost of any return shipping.

For more information, see our full Return Policy.