What should you know about RF electrosurgery?

A clinician places an active electrode near or on the target while the device delivers a measured electrical current. Depending on the mode, the energy can divide tissue, seal small blood vessels, or dry a superficial lesion. Local anaesthetic may be used so the area is numb during treatment. Smoke or a singed smell can occur, and protective measures help reduce exposure.

The target must be diagnosed before it is treated. A raised spot, wart, or other growth may need examination, and tissue may sometimes be sent for laboratory assessment. RF electrosurgery is not a general-purpose treatment for every lump or changing mark. [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/) is the treatment overview, while an [Electrosurgical Unit](/technology/electrosurgical-unit/) is the equipment that delivers the current.

Tell the clinician about pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices, metal near the site, bleeding problems, poor wound healing, allergies to dressings, and medicines that affect clotting. Do not shave, pick, or apply irritating products to the area unless instructed. After treatment, keep the site clean and follow the dressing advice. A crust may form as the treated surface heals; do not pull it away.

Protect healed skin from sun exposure to reduce lingering colour change. If the procedure is being considered for [Genital Warts](/conditions/genital-warts/), ask how recurrence, partner communication, and testing for other causes will be handled.

Contact the clinic for bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, increasing pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, or wound separation. Get urgent help for facial swelling affecting breathing, severe weakness, or a rapidly expanding reaction. A darkening or lightening mark can take time to settle, but a clinician should assess a marked or worsening change.

What is the diagnosis of the tissue being treated? Which electrosurgical mode will you use, and will a sample be examined? What anaesthetic and wound dressing are planned? Which symptoms should prompt a same-day call, and how will you review the site?