Electrocautery is a medical procedure used to remove unwanted tissue or growths on the skin using heat generated by an electrical current. It’s commonly used to treat various skin conditions, including benign growths such as skin tags, moles, seborrheic hyperplasia and seborrheic keratoses, as well as to control bleeding during surgical procedures.
Here’s how electrocautery works and how it treats bumps on the skin:
- Procedure:
- During electrocautery, a small, pen-like device called an electrocautery probe is used. The tip of the probe is heated by an electrical current, which generates heat energy. The probe is then applied to the target area of the skin, delivering controlled heat to the tissue.
- Heat Generation: The heat produced by the electrocautery probe serves several purposes:
- It destroys the targeted tissue by causing coagulation (clotting) of proteins within the cells, leading to cell death.
- It cauterizes (seals) blood vessels, reducing the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure.
- It may also have a drying effect on the tissue, aiding in the removal of surface growths.
- Treatment of Bumps on the Skin:
- Skin tags: Small, soft, flesh-colored growths that often occur in areas where the skin rubs against itself, such as the neck, armpits, or groin.
- Benign moles
- Seborrheic keratoses: Non-cancerous growths that usually appear as brown, black, or tan waxy patches or bumps on the skin’s surface.
- Procedure and Recovery:
- Electrocautery is typically performed in a clinic setting. The procedure is relatively quick and can usually be done with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. After the procedure, the treated area may form a scab, which will eventually fall off as the skin heals. It’s essential to follow post-procedure care instructions provided by the healthcare provider to promote proper healing and reduce the risk of infection. The downtime is about a week.
Overall, electrocautery is a safe and effective procedure for removing various types of bumps on the skin. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if electrocautery is the appropriate treatment option for your specific skin condition.
