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.

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.

Key Facts

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.

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Surgical Dermatology

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.

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ED&C procedure South Tampa dermatologist

Clinical Standard

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.

Dr. Alexandra Grob, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Type I

Superficial BCC

Thin basal cell carcinomas on the body that have not invaded deeply. ED&C provides excellent clearance with minimal scarring.

Type II

Bowen's Disease

Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCC confined to the epidermis). ED&C effectively removes the abnormal cells.

Type III

Pre-Cancers

Thick actinic keratoses that are resistant to topical therapy. ED&C provides definitive clearance of stubborn precancerous lesions.

Board-Certified Dermatologists

Meet Your Specialists.

Dr. Grob

Founder & Dermatologist specializing in thorough skin cancer detection and surgical management with clear margins.

Dr. Dane

Double Board-Certified Dermatologist and Facial Cosmetic Surgeon providing advanced surgical dermatology and expert cosmetic reconstruction.

Common Questions

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.

South Tampa Dermatology

MODERN DERMATOLOGY: SOUTH TAMPA'S SURGICAL DERMATOLOGY EXPERTS

Board-certified dermatology in the heart of South Tampa. Accepting new patients.