Before any treatment you will have a thorough consultation to ensure medically we can go ahead with the treatment, that you fully understand what to expect and that you also understand how to care for the wart in the following days/weeks.
Once treatment starts, a fine needle will be placed in contact with the wart, and an electric current is passed through it. The heat generated by the current essentially burns or vaporises the wart tissue. This process not only destroys the wart but also seals blood vessels, which reduces the risk of bleeding.
One of the things I love about diathermy is its precision. The heat is directed specifically at the wart, which minimises damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. This precise approach is particularly beneficial when treating warts on sensitive areas such as the face or hands. It is important to be aware that there will almost always be a footprint of where the wart has been once treatment has been successful, like a small scar, particularly if the wart has been large or deep.
After the procedure, I may cover the treated wart with a sterile dressing to protect it while it heals. This depends on your job and how you feel you can manage the aftercare. Healing typically takes one to two weeks, during which you should avoid activities that could irritate the area. Some redness and swelling are common post-treatment, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days.
Overall, diathermy is a reliable and effective treatment for wart removal, particularly for persistent or large warts. However, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks, including infection, scarring, or incomplete wart removal, which I will discuss with you in detail at your consultation.
