Electrocautery for Genital Warts
Electrocautery removes genital warts on the penis, vulva, or around the anus by burning them with a low-voltage electrified probe.
Electrocautery is usually done in a doctor's office or a clinic. The injection of a numbing medicine (local anesthetic) is usually used for pain control. Medicine that causes unconsciousness (general anesthetic) may be used depending on the number of warts to be removed or destroyed.
What To Expect
The recovery time depends on the location and number of warts removed.
- After surgery you may have some pain, swelling, and redness.
- Healing usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.
- Healing may take longer if a large area of tissue is burned.
- Treatment may leave scars.
Avoid sex until the treated area heals. Because treatment does not completely get rid of the virus that causes warts, you may still spread the virus through sex. Wearing a condom during sex can help. It does not completely prevent spreading the virus, but it can reduce the risk.
Why It Is Done
Electrocautery removes warts with little blood loss. It usually is used for small areas of warts.
How Well It Works
Electrocautery often works to remove warts. But treatment does not get rid of the virus that causes genital warts, and warts may grow back.
Risks
Risks of electrocautery are:
- Bleeding. Blood loss is usually minimal, because the electrocautery seals blood vessels as it removes warts.
- Infection. Antibiotics may be given at the time of the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
- Pain. Medicine may be needed for several days after the electrocautery procedure.
Credits
Current as of: May 5, 2025
Current as of: May 5, 2025