Electrodessication and Curettage (EDC) Treatment
A quick, in-office treatment for superficial skin cancers and pre-cancerous lesions.
A Simple and Effective Option for Treating Superficial Skin Cancers
Electrodessication and Curettage (EDC) is a widely used, effective dermatologic procedure for the treatment of superficial skin growths, including certain types of skin cancer and benign lesions. This technique involves the scraping away of abnormal tissue using a curette, followed by the use of electrical energy to destroy any remaining cells and control bleeding.
At Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, EDC is performed exclusively by board-certified dermatologists with the highest level of training to ensure safe, effective care with minimized risk of recurrence.
What Is Electrodessication and Curettage?
EDC is a form of electrosurgery used to treat non-invasive and superficial skin lesions. During this procedure, a sharp, spoon-shaped instrument called a curette is used to scrape away the lesion. The area is then treated with electrocautery, which applies heat to the wound to stop bleeding and destroy any remaining abnormal cells.
This method is ideal for lesions that are
limited to the surface layers of the skin and are not expected to have invaded deeper tissue.
How Is EDC Performed?
EDC is performed in an outpatient setting and typically takes only a short time to complete.
Step-by-Step Overview of the EDC Procedure:
- Preoperative Consultation:
- Your dermatologist will review your medical history, medications, and explain why EDC is the appropriate treatment for your lesion.
- Local Anesthesia:
- A small injection of local anesthetic is administered to numb the treatment area.
- You may feel pressure but no pain during the procedure.
- Curettage (Scraping):
- The lesion is gently scraped away using the curette to remove abnormal tissue.
- Electrodessication (Cauterization):
- The base of the wound is treated with an electrocautery device to stop bleeding and destroy residual lesion cells.
- The cycle of curettage and cauterization may be repeated several times to ensure complete treatment.
- Dressing and Wound Care Instructions:
- A dressing is applied to the treated area, and you will receive detailed instructions on how to care for the wound at home.
What Types of Skin Growths Can Be Treated by EDC?
EDC is most effective for superficial skin lesions that are confined to the top layers of the skin.
Common Skin Conditions Treated with EDC:
- Actinic keratoses
(precancerous lesions)
- Basal cell carcinoma
(superficial type)
- Squamous cell carcinoma
in situ (Bowen’s disease)
- Seborrheic keratoses
- Skin tags
- Viral warts
- Pyogenic granulomas
This procedure is not suitable for deep, aggressive, or invasive skin cancers. Your dermatologist will assess your lesion and determine the best treatment approach.
Will EDC Leave a Scar?
Yes, like most skin procedures, EDC can result in scarring. The scar is typically flat and round, similar in size to the original lesion. While scarring is generally minimal, some individuals may develop hypertrophic scars or keloids, though this is uncommon.
What to Expect After Electrodessication and Curettage
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery:
- Expect mild
tenderness once the local anesthetic wears off.
- Over-the-counter pain medications such as
acetaminophen (Tylenol) or
ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are usually sufficient.
- An
initial dressing will be applied and should remain in place for
24 hours, or as directed by your dermatologist.
- Keep the area
clean and dry for 48 hours. After that, you may gently wash and dry the wound.
Healing Timeline:
- The wound typically heals over
2–3 weeks.
- Initially, the scar may appear
red and raised, but it will generally flatten and fade over the next several months.
Are Pathology Results Available After EDC?
In many cases, no specimen is sent for pathology with EDC because it is considered a “blind” procedure. Instead, your dermatologist relies on tactile feedback from the curette and visual cues to differentiate between normal and abnormal tissue.
For this reason,
EDC should only be performed by highly trained dermatologists, as studies show higher recurrence rates when done by inexperienced providers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electrodessication and Curettage
Is EDC painful?
No, the area is fully numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure. You may feel some pressure but no pain during the treatment.
How long does the EDC procedure take?
The procedure itself typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the size and location of the lesion.
What are the risks of EDC?
The risks are minimal but may include:
- Scarring
- Pigment changes at the treatment site
- Infection (rare)
- Recurrence of the lesion if not fully removed
How do I care for the wound after EDC?
Keep the area clean and dry for the first 48 hours. Follow wound care instructions provided by your dermatologist, including when to change dressings and how to avoid irritation.
Can EDC be used for melanoma?
No, EDC is not appropriate for melanoma or deeply invasive skin cancers. It is reserved for superficial lesions where depth control is possible.
Schedule Your Skin Growth Evaluation Today
If you have a skin growth that is bothersome, changing, or cosmetically unappealing, don’t wait. Contact Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group today to schedule your consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists. We are experts in evaluating and treating a wide range of skin conditions, offering compassionate care and personalized treatment plans.
Let us help you achieve peace of mind and healthy skin.
