Abstract Background To test the effectiveness of a new, innovative, single-use handheld ‘cryopen’ (CryoTreq®), which has been developed and marketed by Vitreq. Methods Animal testing of cryopexy using the Cryotreq ® in two pig eyes was performed. Results The biological effects of cryopexy were observed. Conclusions During the surgery, the handheld device was comfortable to use and offers the surgeon more freedom to move. The cryotherapy caused severe atrophy and thinning of retinal layers, pigment epithelium and choroidea in a relatively uniform thickness. The cryopen is effective and offers advantages over non-handheld cryotherapy devices.