Electrodessication
& Curettage.
ED&C is a highly effective in-office surgical technique for treating superficial skin cancers and pre-cancerous lesions on the trunk and extremities. It provides high clearance rates with minimal downtime.
Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C): At a Glance
What does Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C) treat?
- Superficial basal cell carcinomas, select squamous cell carcinomas in situ, and benign lesions such as seborrheic keratoses.
How does Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C) work?
- After local anesthesia, the lesion is scraped with a curette and the base treated with electrosurgery in three cycles.
How long is a Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C) session?
- 15–30 minutes
What is the downtime after Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C)?
- Wound heals by secondary intention over 2–4 weeks.
When will I see results from Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C)?
- Complete healing in 3–6 weeks; leaves a flat round scar.
How much does Electrodesiccation & Curettage (ED&C) cost in Tampa?
- $400–$900 per site.
Superficial BCC
Thin basal cell carcinomas on the body that have not invaded deeply. ED&C provides excellent clearance with minimal scarring.
Bowen's Disease
Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCC confined to the epidermis). ED&C effectively removes the abnormal cells.
Pre-Cancers
Thick actinic keratoses that are resistant to topical therapy. ED&C provides definitive clearance of stubborn precancerous lesions.
Scrape & Cauterize.
ED&C involves scraping away the abnormal tissue with a curette (a specialized surgical instrument), then using electrodessication to cauterize the wound bed and destroy residual cancer cells. This cycle is typically repeated 2-3 times to ensure thorough clearance.
Efficient Cancer Clearance. ED&C is ideal for superficial basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas in situ on the trunk, arms, and legs. It offers clearance rates exceeding 95% for appropriate candidates, with a faster healing process than excisional surgery.
Frequently Asked.
How long does the procedure take?
ED&C typically takes 15 to 30 minutes under local anesthesia. It is performed entirely in our South Tampa office.
What does the wound look like after?
The wound heals like a scrape over 2-4 weeks, forming a round scar. On the body, this is usually cosmetically acceptable.
Is ED&C as effective as excision?
For appropriate lesions (superficial cancers on the trunk/extremities), ED&C clearance rates exceed 95%. For facial or high-risk cancers, surgical excision is preferred.
Is there any downtime?
The wound requires daily wound care for 2-4 weeks but does not typically limit daily activities.
Your Neighborhood Dermatologist
Serving South Tampa & Surrounding Communities
Modern Dermatology is based at 905 W Platt St in the heart of South Tampa, minutes from Hyde Park, Davis Islands, Palma Ceia, and Bayshore. We care for patients from every Tampa neighborhood.
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MODERN DERMATOLOGY: SOUTH TAMPA'S SURGICAL DERMATOLOGY EXPERTS
Board-certified dermatology in the heart of South Tampa. Accepting new patients.
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