Electrocauterization Surgery

Cauterization is the process of destroying tissue by using chemical corrosion, electricity, or heat. Electrocautery is done using a small probe, which has an electric current running through it, to cauterize (burn or destroy) the tissue.

Electrocautery is a safe procedure and is routinely used in surgery to burn unwanted or harmful tissue. It is also effectively used to reduce or stop hemorrhaging by "burning" the bleeding blood vessels thus sealing them off. Various types, shapes, and sizes of tips (probes) are available for specific treatments.

A specific type of electrocautery is fulguration, sometimes called electrodesiccation. Electrodesiccation is the destruction of tissue with a diathermy instrument. Electrodesiccation is particularly useful inside the bladder. Bladder electrodesiccation is performed via the urethra and viewed through a cystoscope.

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Updated: December 21, 2023