Electrodessication: A fast, straightforward procedure to remove many lesions
Electrodessication may sound like a mouthful. However, it is a relatively straightforward procedure to treat many skin lesions, from those that detract from your appearance or are uncomfortable to those that are particularly harmful to your health.
What is electrodessication ?
This efficient procedure, performed at the office of Bluebonnet Dermatology in McKinney, Texas, involves the application of an electric current. When in the highly skilled hands of our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Huayi Zhang, this current predictably and safely heats the skin within the treatment area. Since treatment is so targeted, the tissues outside the lesion or site are left untouched. This precision helps minimize the risks of complications to otherwise healthy tissues by avoiding the potential for damage from the heat generated and used to remove benign and cancerous growths alike.
How does electrodessication remove growths ?
Electrodessication triggers a process whereby damaged or cancerous cells are cauterized and destroyed. It is combined with another treatment called “curettage” for a dual approach known as “ED&C” or “electrodessication and curettage.”
What is the “curettage” part ?
The curette is a small, spoon-shaped tool used to rub away or remove abnormal skin cells.
What can I expect from electrodessication with curettage ?
First, the curette removes the lesion. Then, we use an electrode or electric needle to apply an electric current that destroys any remaining cells within the treatment area. The process may be repeated a few times. All of this is also done to numb the skin thoroughly. You shouldn’t feel anything during treatment.
What about afterward ?
Having some red discoloration and possibly swelling at the treatment site is not unusual. We can advise on ways to take care of the site as it heals. During the healing process, scabs form. Depending on your skin type (as well as the treatment intensity), the scab may fall off within one week to three weeks after your procedure. You should see noticeable improvements in drainage, the size of the site, and other characteristics as your skin heals. It is considered fully healed when the skin is closed, smooth, and pink and is no longer scabbing, crusting, or draining.
Is ED&C suitable for me ?
It very well could be! Dr. Zhang will not know for sure what “next steps” are appropriate for you until she looks at your lesions or trouble spots. This process removes cosmetic skin lesions such as seborrheic keratosis or cherry angiomas. However, it may also be appropriate for certain pre-cancers and cancerous lesions. We can discuss treatment alternatives as needed based on what Dr. Zhang finds during your consultation. These options might include surgical excision/removal, cryotherapy, and other therapies.
Trust the diagnostic and therapeutic expertise of a board-certified dermatologist. Call (469) 663-8838 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Zhang at the office of Bluebonnet Dermatology in McKinney, TX.
