Electrosurgery or Electrodesiccation: What is this new procedure being proposed to treat rosacea?

In the context of rosacea, electrodessication causes the instant coagulation of facial blood vessels, which helps to reduce the redness characteristic of this skin condition. The telangiectasias, or dilated blood vessels, are also targeted and their diameter is reduced. The electrosurgery procedure is generally quick and only requires local anesthesia, or in some cases, no anesthesia at all. It provides the practitioner with precise control over the target tissue, which reduces the risks of bleeding and damage to surrounding tissues.

Electrosurgery is a minimally invasive procedure, subsequently allowing for a quick recovery of patients.

The number of electro-surgery sessions needed to treat rosacea varies depending on the severity of the disease and the individual's response. Generally, several sessions, spread over several weeks, are required. Electro-surgery is particularly beneficial for patients suffering from telangiectasia, the vascular form of rosacea. It is also used to treat patients with rhinophyma ranging from moderate to severe.

Electrosurgery has indeed demonstrated good efficacy in a recent clinical trial conducted on patients with moderate to severe forms of rhinophyma. In total, seven individuals aged between 40 and 69 were treated, and the results were very satisfactory for all of these patients. Electrosurgery allowed a return to their original nasal shape while maintaining a healthy state of the cartilage. Thus, patients were able to regain a certain level of comfort. As for side effects, only 3 patients exhibited minor scarring after the operation.

Rosacea and Electro Surgery: Special Precautions for Use?

Electrosurgery treatment can have side effects due to the high current it uses. This technique can particularly expose one to the risk of cartilage necrosis, a complication that is nonetheless quite rare. As for post-operative care, recommendations are tailored to each patient but generally include good skin hydration, to support healing, as well as the daily application of sun protection. This latter advice helps to prevent the risks of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Finally, it should be noted that special vigilance is recommended for people with dark skin as they may exhibit pigmentation disorders following the treatment.

Electrosurgery must always be performed by a healthcare professional. When carried out at home, this treatment poses high risks of infection, bleeding, and cartilage necrosis.