Electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C) is a surgical procedure that has been used for decades to remove various skin lesions such as warts, angiomas, actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinomas, and squamous cell carcinomas. This procedure is typically performed by dermatologists, surgeons, or general practitioners and can be done in an outpatient setting.
What is Electrodesiccation and Curettage (ED&C)?
ED&C is a surgical procedure that involves two main steps: scraping and cautery. During the scraping step, a curette is used to remove the cancerous tissue from the affected area. This is typically done with a long, thin instrument with a sharp looped edge on one end. Following the scraping, an electric needle, called an electrode, is used to cauterize the remaining cancer cells and stop bleeding. This process is repeated one or twice during the same office visit to ensure that all cancerous roots have been eliminated.
How isED&C Performed?
ED&C is typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning that no hospital stay is required. The patient will initially be numbed with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure. The area around the tumor is then injected with a medication to numb it, and the skin is prepared for the procedure. The curette is used to remove the cancerous tissue, and the electrode is used to cauterize any remaining cancer cells. The procedure is typically repeated once or twice during the same office visit to ensure that all cancerous roots have been eliminated.
What Are the Benefits ofED&C?
One of the main benefits of ED&C is that it is a quick and relatively simple procedure. It does not require sutures, so there is no need for a follow-up visit for suture removal. Additionally, the healing time is typically shorter with ED&C compared to other surgical procedures.
What Are the Risks ofED&C?
While ED&C is generally a safe and effective procedure, there are some potential risks involved. These include pain, swelling, bleeding, crusting, and the need for re-treatment based on the pathology report. In rare cases, cancer recurrence may occur after ED&C. It is important to discuss these risks with your healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.
Conclusion
Electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C) is a surgical procedure that has been used for decades to remove various skin lesions. It involves two main steps: shaving the cancerous tissue off the surface and cauterizing any remaining cancer cells to stop bleeding. While ED&C is a quick and relatively simple procedure, it is important to discuss the potential risks and advantages with your healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.
