Cauterization of Penile Condylomata

Why is it done?

• One of the non-medical treatment options for condylomas (genital warts)..

How is it done?

• This procedure is done under local or general anaesthetic.
• Supine position.
• The foreskin may be the only affected area and therefore a circumcision is done.
• Otherwise, the affected area is exposed and cleaned.
• The affected lesions are cauterized, including the root of the wart.
• Due to charring, and good hemostasis, no sutures are required.
• Hemostatic dressings are placed.
• Specimen is sent to a histopathologist.
• An indwelling catheter may be inserted if the biopsy area involves the meatus of your urethra.
• A dressing is then applied, which should be removed after 72 hours.
• A local anesthetic is injected at the base of the penis as a penile block thus giving post-operative pain relief for the next 4-6 hours.

What to expect after the procedure?

• Any anesthetic has its risks, and the anesthetist will explain such risks.
• Bleeding is an uncommon complication.
• Eschar may loosen with vigorous use of erect penis and could lead to bleeding.
• An infection of the wound may occur and requires immediate attention.
• DANGER SIGNS: A wound that swells immediately, fever, and puss. Contact Dr Schoeman or the hospital immediately as this occurs in up to 15–20% of all cases.

What next?

• Dressings should be kept dry for the initial 72 hours after surgery and soaked off in a bath thereafter.
• The dressing may sometimes adhere to the wound causing slight bleeding on removal. Don’t panic, the bleeding will stop.
• The catheter will be removed as soon as you are awake, or if there are concerns, the following morning.
• Patients should schedule a follow-up appointment with Dr Schoeman 4-6 weeks after the procedure.
• There will be signs of bruising for at least 10 days.
• Refrain from using your erect penis for 6 weeks.
• Sick leave will be granted for a few days.
• Please direct all further queries to Dr Schoeman’s rooms.
• PLEASE CONTACT THE HOSPITAL DIRECTLY WITH ANY POST-OPERATIVE CONCERNS AND RETURN TO THE HOSPITAL IMMEDIATELY SHOULD THERE BE ANY SIGNS OF SEPSIS.

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Wes Cauterization of Penile Condylomata