About the High-Frequency Radio-Wave Scalpel (Surgitron Dual EMC)

As one option for treating skin tumors and the like, our clinic has introduced the “Surgitron Dual EMC,” a high-frequency treatment device made by Ellman. The Surgitron uses 4.0 MHz high-frequency radio waves to excise or vaporize skin growths (moles, warts, and so on). This device is also sometimes used as an aid for hemostasis even in surgery that excises with an ordinary metal scalpel. Here we explain it with the Surgitron used for the removal of a growth itself (“electrocautery”) in mind.

Features of the Surgitron Dual EMC

• Little effect on the surrounding skin: the properties of the high frequency limit the spread of heat, minimizing scorch damage to the surrounding normal skin.
• A procedure with little bleeding: because a hemostatic effect is obtained at the same time as the excision, there is almost no bleeding during treatment.
• A quick, same-day treatment: the procedure can be done in a short time.

About anesthesia

The procedure is carried out after a local anesthetic injection or tape anesthesia.

About post-operative care

• Each day after washing, apply an ointment and protect the wound with gauze, continuing for about one to three weeks until the wound closes.
• After the procedure, you will need to return for a follow-up visit at the specified time. Please also come in for an examination whenever you notice anything abnormal.

Side effects and risks

• An allergy to the anesthetic may occur.
• The wound can develop a bacterial infection.
• Irritation from post-operative topical medications, or side effects from oral medications (including allergy), can occur.
• The scar may be smaller or larger in area than the growth was. As for color, it is standard for it to start out reddish and turn white over several months to several years; it is not usual for it to become completely undetectable.
• Pigmentation or loss of pigment may remain at the scar.
• The scar may remain sunken, or conversely a hypertrophic scar or keloid may form.
• If the growth is removed only barely, part of it may remain or it may recur later.
• If a pathology test is performed and the growth turns out to be malignant, additional treatment may be necessary.
• Depending on the post-operative course, or at the time of re-operation, the diagnosis may change later.

Contraindications (those who cannot receive this treatment)

• Those who use a pacemaker or an implantable defibrillator
• Those who are pregnant (safety has not been established)
• Other cases where the doctor judges it inappropriate

Precautions

• Those with a condition that affects wound healing, such as diabetes, may heal more slowly.
• Those taking anticoagulants have an increased risk of bleeding, so please be sure to consult us in advance.