Electrodesiccation
Electrodesiccation (pronounced: e-lek-tro-des-i-ka-shun) is a medical procedure that involves the use of electric current to destroy and remove unwanted tissue.
Etymology
The term "Electrodesiccation" is derived from the Greek words "electron" meaning amber, from which electricity was first produced, and "desiccare" which is Latin for "to dry up".
Procedure
Electrodesiccation is often used in dermatology to treat skin conditions such as warts, skin tags, moles, and basal cell carcinoma. The procedure involves the use of a special device that delivers a high-frequency electric current to the targeted tissue. This current heats and dries out the tissue, causing it to die and eventually fall off.
Related Terms
- Curettage: This is a procedure often performed in conjunction with electrodesiccation. It involves scraping the skin with a curette to remove certain skin conditions.
- Electrocautery: This is a similar procedure to electrodesiccation, but it uses heat to destroy the tissue rather than drying it out.
- Dermatology: This is the branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases, a unique specialty with both medical and surgical aspects.
Risks and Complications
Like any medical procedure, electrodesiccation carries some risks. These may include infection, scarring, changes in skin color, or a reaction to the local anesthesia. It's important to discuss these risks with your healthcare provider before the procedure.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Electrodesiccation
- Wikipedia's article - Electrodesiccation
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