A guide to patients about electrosurgery

What is electrosurgery?

Electrosurgery involves the use of special equipment that either transmits radio waves or an electrical spark to remove a variety of skin lesions such as painful corns and foreign bodies.

Why do people have electrosurgery?

Sometimes long-term skin problems, such as fibrous corns, do not respond to normal treatment. Although there is no guarantee that electrosurgery will work completely, it may reduce the severity of the problem and thereby reduce the pain.

What does electrosurgery involve?

You will be given several injections of local anaesthetic around your foot and ankle. Once we are sure your foot is numb, your leg may be wrapped in a plastic sheet that is attached to the unit. The electrosurgery probe is used to dry out the affected skin which is then gently cut away. Afterwards a large dressing is applied to the wound.

Does electrosurgery hurt?

The injections will sting but they are over quite quickly. Before we carry out the surgery we check that your foot is completely numb.

Will it hurt when the anaesthetic wears off?

The anaesthetic generally wears off after four to eight hours, after which you may feel some pain. It may be necessary for you to take a pain relief tablet. We do not recommend aspirin though as it may cause bleeding. However, if you take aspirin as part of your normal medication you should continue to do so.

How long does the surgery take?

The procedure itself does not take very long but we allow an hour and a half as sometimes the anaesthetic takes a while to take effect. If you wish you may bring a book to read.

Where do I have to go for the surgery?

We will let you know when we send you the appointment letter. As there are only a few sites in Kent where this procedure is carried out there may be some travelling involved.

Who will do the surgery?

All of our podiatrists are qualified to carry out this procedure. Usually there will be two clinicians present.

Can I bring someone with me?

You are welcome to bring someone with you but the room may be very small, so please only bring one person. Small children are not allowed into the room.

Will I be able to eat on the day?

Yes, we recommend that you eat normally.

Are there any risks with this procedure?

No surgery is without risk. It is possible that:

• the problem may return
• the wound may get infected
• it may take longer to heal than the average
• you may experience an allergic reaction to the local anaesthetic
• there may be some scarring
• the local anaesthetic may take longer than usual to wear off. Very rarely sensation to your foot may be permanently reduced.

What if I have more questions before the procedure?

Please contact your local clinic to speak to a podiatrist.

What do I need to do after the procedure?

When you get home:

• rest with your foot up
• leave the original dressing in place until your first redressing appointment
• do not get the dressing wet. Add extra dressings on top if you see blood soaking through.
• take a painkiller if you need to, following the dosage recommended on the packet. If you are taking any other medication, consult a pharmacist about a suitable painkiller. Do not take aspirin as this will increase any bleeding. Patients who take aspirin as their normal medication however should continue to do so.

Will I be able to walk afterwards?

You can walk but it will feel very strange as your foot will be numb. You will need to rest your foot as much as possible for the first 24 hours.

Will I be able to drive afterwards?

No, you should not drive until the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off (as advised by the DVLA). The time it takes to wear off vary for each person. The dressing we apply may also affect your ability to drive.

What sort of shoes should I wear?

We may put a very large bandage on your foot so please bring some sandals or open-toed shoes with you. In some cases we may issue a surgical shoe. If you have been issued this shoe, it is important you bring it with you or we will not be able to carry out the surgery.

When will I be able to wear normal shoes?

Your podiatrist will give you advice when you attend your follow-up dressing appointments. Wounds heal faster when there is no shoe pressure.

How long will I be off work?

This will depend on the type of work you do and what surgery you have had. Most people can expect to be back at work after 10 days.

How long does it take to heal?

It will vary from person to person but on average it takes four to six weeks depending on individual activity levels. If you smoke or are on a restricted diet, it will take longer to heal.

Will I need to change the dressings myself?

You must leave the first dressing on until your first redressing appointment. We will then re-dress your foot and advise you how to look after your foot yourself. We will give you some dressings to help you to do this. We will then review your progress regularly until your foot has healed.

If you do not feel well

There is a remote possibility that you will experience an allergic reaction to the local anaesthetic.

If this occurs you may suffer from some or all of the following symptoms:

• rash
• paleness and/or limpness
• swelling of the face or neck causing difficulty breathing, speaking or swallowing
• hoarseness or wheezing.

If you do experience any of the above symptoms, you must call an ambulance.

This leaflet will provide important information for the emergency services and the doctors.

For any other concerns, please contact your local clinic.

Electrosurgery of lesion(s) on the foot

Patient name ________________________________________________________________________

Date of birth   ______/______/____________      NHS no. _____________________________________

GP _________________________________________________________________________________

Local anaesthetic: Scandonest 3% plain (mepivacaine)

Amount administered ­­­­________________________     Date of surgery ______/______/___________