Electrocauterization
Definition
Electrocauterization is the process of heating tissue with electricity. The procedure is often used to stop bleeding during surgery or after an injury.
Alternative Names
Cauterization
Information
Electrocauterization (or electrocautery) is a safe procedure that is routinely used in surgery to remove unwanted or harmful tissue. It can also be used to burn and seal blood vessels, which helps reduce or stop bleeding.
A small probe with an electric current running through it is used to burn or destroy the tissue. A grounding pad is placed on the body (usually the thigh) before the surgery to protect the patient from the harmful effects of the electricity.
Review Date:
8/17/2011
Reviewed By:
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc
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