Elektrodesikkation

Elektrodesikkation (also spelled electrodesiccation or electrodessication) is a minor surgical technique used to destroy tissue by applying high-frequency electric current that produces localized heating and drying (desiccation). It is commonly used in dermatology and minor surgery to treat superficial skin lesions such as benign warts, actinic keratoses, and some superficial non-melanoma skin cancers, often together with curettage (curettage and electrodesiccation).

The mechanism involves conversion of electrical energy into heat at the tissue interface, causing coagulation and cellular dehydration that leads to necrosis of the targeted area. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting and can provide rapid lesion removal with immediate hemostasis.

Advantages of elektrodesikkation include simplicity, speed, low cost, and effective control of bleeding. Limitations include imprecise depth control, inability to provide intact excised tissue for histologic margin assessment, and reduced suitability for deep, large, or anatomically complex lesions. It is generally avoided for suspected melanomas and some high-risk skin cancers.

Complications may include pain, scarring, hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation, delayed healing, and infection. Special precautions are taken for patients with implanted electronic devices or bleeding disorders. Alternatives include surgical excision, cryotherapy, topical therapies, photodynamic therapy, and Mohs micrographic surgery, choice depending on lesion type, size, location, and diagnostic needs.