Topic Overview
Electrocautery is the use of a low-voltage electrical charge to burn
off a growth. The electrical charge travels through the tip of a needle to the
growth. It can be an effective way to remove a
seborrheic keratosis. But it is not effective for
removing large numbers of keratoses.
This procedure usually can be done in your doctor's office. An
injection of a numbing medicine (local anesthetic) should help control pain. Healing usually takes 2 to 4
weeks, depending on the size of the treated area.
Electrocautery can leave a scar and may permanently lighten dark
skin.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
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| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
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| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology |
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| Last Revised | January 28, 2011 |
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