Diathermy

What to expect after Diathermy?

During your procedure today to remove your skin lesion diathermy was used.

What is Diathermy?

Diathermy is a method used to remove skin lesions as an alternative to a scalpel or a curette. It is also sometimes used to stop bleeding after a lesion is removed. It uses an electric current to stimulate heat generation within body tissues. The method can avoid the need for sutures, give a neater scar and be less painful. 

How long will it take for my wound to heal?

Healing will occur over the next few weeks. Please keep the wound completely dry for 24hours following your procedure.

If a dressing is applied when can I remove it?

Leave the dressing on for 24hr after which you can wash the area normally. Generally it is best to leave areas without a dressing as they heal, unless it is at a site which is likely to rub and irritate.

What should I expect after removing the dressing?

Don’t be alarmed if you find a reddened weeping area which will then go on to form a crust. Try not to pick any scabs and allow them to come away naturally. Once the scab has fallen away a bright pink area of skin will remain.

Can I use anything to try and help?

After the initial 24hrs we encourage you to apply Vaseline to the wound twice daily, at least until the scab falls off.

What are the signs of infection?

Wound infection is RARE however it might occur despite all our preventable measures. It is more likely in those who are diabetic, smokers, on steroids or people with poor health. Infected wounds tend to be weepy, swollen, hot, increasingly painful and with spreading redness. If you are concerned your wound is infected review this with your GP or attend the Urgent Treatment Centre at Estuary View.

How long will it take for the pink area left to fade and match the surrounding skin?

This will slowly fade over the next 2 years, but as with other scars it might always have a slightly different appearance to the surrounding skin.

When will my results be back?

Every specimen is sent for routine examination under a microscope to establish an exact diagnosis. The results are usually back and reviewed within 6 weeks. You will be contacted about the results directly. Depending on the findings you will either be written to or sent an appointment to be seen in the clinic. If you have not heard 8 weeks after the procedure or have any queries please contact: 01227 284314 / 01227 284315.