Skin lesions are burnt off using a metallic probe heated by an electric current.
Also known as
Electrosurgery
diathermy, fulguration, electrocautery, electrosurgery, electrodessication, hyfrecation
Conditions treated
Electrosurgery
is used in the treatment of:
How it’s performed
The area is injected with a local anaesthetic. A doctor applies a hot electrode to the skin lesion to be treated. The lesion is burnt off with attention not to damage surrounding tissues. A small burnt area is left behind; this area may be black and crusted.
Preparing for
Electrosurgery
The skin must be clean and dry. Do not wear make-up, fake tan or any other skin medications, creams or cosmetics on the area to be treated.
Side effects and complications
Scarring, burns
Follow-up
Leave any dressings in place and keep the area dry for 2-3 days. Medical follow-up is usually not required.
Aftercare
Contraindications
Cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator
Warnings
Pregnancy
It's safe to undergo this procedure while you are pregnant.
News/blog articles
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Web links
Electrosurgery
DermNet NZ
Describes the different types of electrosurgery and how they work
Manufacturer's brochure
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References
Electrosurgery
StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021 Jan
2021
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482380/
Date accessed:
15
May 2021
Published:
30 Dec
2020
Last updated:
29 Jan
2023