a thermoelectric cryoprobe for the topical treatment of neoplasms by freezing . the cryoprobe comprises a plurality of stacked thermoelectric modules coupled to a distal treatment tip through a heat pipe . heat is dissipated by a heat exchanger system . an external control unit is provided which serves as a source of dc power for the hand - held cryoprobe and contains a control system for controlling the thermoelectric element based upon temperature feedback from treatment site . temperature feedback from the sensors facilitates freeze - thaw cycling by the cryoprobe to more effectively destroy the tissue at the treatment site .