Chapter 7 Wart Treatment
Common indications
Patients frequently request the removal of warts to decrease discomfort and for cosmetic concerns (Figure 7-1).
Key steps
Warts can be treated with a variety of methods, such as electrocautery and cryotherapy. Electrocautery is one of the most effective techniques for plantar warts, but careful attention is needed to avoid scarring.
Electrocautery and Curettage
1. Anesthesia: All lesions must be cleaned and locally anesthetized. Gently infiltrate 1 to 2 cc of 1% lidocaine under the lesion (Figure 7-2).
2. Debulk the lesion: If necessary, excise the bulk of large warts with a scalpel blade before electrocautery (Figure 7-3). Plantar warts can then be moistened with sterile water to improve the keratin response to electrodessication.
3. Electrocautery: With the electrocautery unit set on fulguration, lightly touch the wart for 2 to 3 seconds (Figure 7-4).
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