Electrodesiccation and curettage is a type of skin electrosurgery that uses heat and a curette tool to remove some skin growths and skin cancers. This technique is best reserved for superficial or shallow skin growths without deeper extensions (roots) in the skin.
ED&C is generally reserved for more superficial skin lesions. These include:
Seborrheic keratoses
Viral warts
Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (non-invasive squamous cell carcinoma)
The procedure visit starts with a consultation with Dr. Thomas Knackstedt. As an experienced dermatologist, Dr. Knackstedt will review the nature of your skin growth, explain the reasons an ED&C treatment is recommended, outline the procedure, and discuss the expected recovery with you in detail.
The procedure begins with the administration of local anesthesia to numb the area surrounding the skin growth, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure. The target lesion is then treated with an electric needle to heat and dry (‘sicca’ – desiccate) the tissue allowing for the easy scraping off of the growth (curettage). This cycle of curetting and electrocautery may be repeated several times (usually one to three) until your board-certified dermatologist feels confident the lesion is completely removed. Given the shallow nature of this procedure, the resulting wound is allowed to heal on its own and stitches are not required.
ED&C is considered a “blind” procedure. In most cases, no specimen is sent to the pathologist. This means that the tumor outline and safety margins are estimated by the board-certified dermatologist using the curette to feel for normal versus affected tissue. This procedure should only be done by experts with a high level of training as inexperienced practitioners have been shown to have higher rates of recurrence (the growth coming back) in several key studies.
Whenever the skin is broken or incised into, there will always be a scar. Careful technique minimizes scarring. ED&C procedures generally heal with a round scar that is usually similar in size to the original lesion and flush with the surrounding skin surface. At times, the scar may be slightly depressed or elevated relative to the surrounding skin.
Your wound may be tender 1-2 hours after the excision when the local anesthetic wears off. Most often, only over-the-counter acetaminophen (Tylenol) and/or ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) is all that is needed. Icepacks also help with pain reduction and decrease swelling or bruising.
For certain types of skin cancer, electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C) may be an effective treatment option. If you or a loved one requires treatment for a basal or squamous cell carcinoma, consult with a board-certified dermatologist at Apex Skin Center. With experienced dermatologists across Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina, we provide ED&C treatments tailored to your needs. Schedule an appointment at one of our locations to discuss if ED&C is suitable for you and receive compassionate care in a comfortable environment.
At a Glance
Dr. Thomas Knackstedt
Double board certified in dermatology and Mohs Surgery
Over ten years of experience providing evidence-based care
Nationally renowned physician leader with numerous publications, lectures, and academic affiliations
