What should you know about an electrosurgery generator?

The generator is the control unit behind electrosurgery. A clinician selects a mode suited to the task, such as cutting tissue, sealing small vessels, or treating a superficial area. A cable connects the generator to a handpiece and an electrode tip. The selected setting, contact time, tip shape, and tissue characteristics all influence the effect, so settings are chosen during the procedure rather than by the patient.

The same broad technology may be described as diathermy or hyfrecation. In skin care, it can be considered for selected lesions after examination. It is also used in specialist treatment pathways, including some cases of Genital Warts. A generator does not identify a lesion or decide whether it is suitable for treatment; that remains a clinical judgment.

Before treatment, mention a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device, metal near the treatment area, medicines that increase bleeding, and any history of slow wound healing. Ask whether you should pause a topical product or arrive without makeup. During treatment, you may notice warmth, a brief stinging sensation, or a smell from treated tissue. Follow the specific wound-care instructions afterward, including dressing changes and sun protection. Avoid rubbing, swimming, or applying active products until the clinician says the surface has recovered.

Call the clinic if discomfort is increasing, the wound keeps bleeding, redness moves beyond the treated area, or swelling and warmth continue to build. Drainage, a bad smell, fever, or a wound that opens also deserves prompt advice. Get urgent care for severe bleeding, breathing difficulty, collapse, or swelling of the face or throat. Do not change the generator settings or attempt to repeat treatment yourself.

Ask what the generator will be used to achieve, which mode is planned, whether a grounding accessory is needed, and how the team protects nearby skin. Clarify whether the lesion needs examination or sampling first, how long the treated surface may take to heal, and which changes should trigger review.