What should you know about coagulation electrosurgery?

An electrosurgical unit sends energy through an instrument so the clinician can heat a defined spot. Coagulation is intended to shrink or seal tissue and help control bleeding; it is not the same as cutting tissue away. The approach may be used for selected skin lesions or wart treatment, depending on location, size and diagnosis. A lesion that has not been assessed may need examination before treatment, because destroying an uncertain growth can make later diagnosis more difficult.

Tell the clinician about a pacemaker or implanted electrical device, medicines that affect bleeding, allergies to dressings and problems with wound healing. The area may be numbed first. Afterward, expect a small tender wound, scab or local colour change. Keep it clean and lightly protected as instructed; do not pull off the scab or apply unapproved antiseptics. Follow the dressing plan and avoid soaking, friction and picking until the surface has closed.

Seek advice if bleeding does not stop with firm pressure, pain or swelling is worsening, redness is spreading, pus appears or fever develops. Numbness that is expanding, a burn extending beyond the treated spot or a wound that is not beginning to settle also deserves review. Urgent care is appropriate for heavy bleeding, fainting or breathing difficulty.

Ask what diagnosis is being treated, whether tissue will be sent for examination, what type of electrosurgical setting is planned, how the wound should be dressed and what scar or pigment change may occur at that body site.