Post-Electrosurgery Warts: Pain and Healing Concerns

Questions after electrosurgery for warts?

In late July, I developed a wart on the sole of my foot, and the clinic doctor removed it using electrosurgery.
Since I wasn't very familiar with this type of procedure, I wrapped it in gauze for about half a month and then stopped paying attention to it.
However, even now, I still experience pain when walking.
Upon closer inspection, I noticed that the wound has healed, but it appears translucent with a large white area and some small white spots.
When I consulted the clinic, the doctor simply said it was a normal phenomenon and suggested I file down the callus and apply lotion.
However, after a week of filing, there has been no change, and I still experience pain while walking.
Since I have physical education classes at school that require frequent activity, I want to resolve this issue as soon as possible.
Should I seek a diagnosis at a larger hospital? I feel like the clinic is not taking my concerns seriously, and I don't think I should go back there for another consultation.

Xiao Huang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/07

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

A literal description without actually seeing the lesion cannot confirm anything.
If you are truly uncomfortable, it is necessary to have a physician examine you to determine how to assist you.

Reply Date: 2015/10/07

More Info

When it comes to post-electrosurgery care, particularly after the removal of warts, it is essential to understand the healing process and the potential complications that can arise. Based on your description, it seems that you have undergone electrosurgery to remove a wart from the sole of your foot, and you are experiencing persistent pain despite the wound appearing to have healed.
Electrosurgery is a common method for wart removal, utilizing high-frequency electrical currents to destroy the wart tissue. While this technique is generally effective, it can lead to various post-operative concerns, including pain, changes in skin texture, and healing complications.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Pain After Surgery: It is not uncommon to experience pain after electrosurgery, especially in areas like the foot where pressure and friction are frequent. The pain you are feeling could be due to several factors:
- Nerve Sensitivity: The procedure may have affected the nerves in the area, leading to heightened sensitivity.

- Scar Tissue Formation: As the wound heals, scar tissue can form, which may be more sensitive than the surrounding skin.

- Pressure on the Wound: Walking and physical activity can put pressure on the healing area, exacerbating pain.

2. Appearance of the Wound: The semi-transparent appearance of the healed area, along with the white patches and spots, suggests that the skin is still in the healing phase. This can be indicative of:
- Hyperkeratosis: Thickening of the outer layer of skin, which can occur as part of the healing process.

- Callus Formation: The body may form a protective layer over the area, which can appear white and may be mistaken for abnormal healing.

Recommendations for Care
1. Follow-Up with a Specialist: Given that your symptoms persist and the initial advice from your clinic has not led to improvement, it would be prudent to seek a second opinion from a dermatologist or a podiatrist. They can provide a more thorough examination and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or are taking other medications.

3. Avoiding Irritation: Until you can see a specialist, try to minimize irritation to the area. Wear comfortable shoes that do not put pressure on the affected area and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.

4. Moisturizing and Care: Continue to apply a moisturizer to the area as recommended. This can help with skin texture and prevent excessive dryness, which may contribute to discomfort.

5. Monitoring Changes: Keep an eye on the area for any changes, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, which could indicate an infection or other complications.

Conclusion
In summary, while some pain and changes in skin appearance can be normal after electrosurgery, persistent pain and lack of improvement warrant further evaluation. Seeking a second opinion from a specialist can provide you with the reassurance and treatment you need to address your symptoms effectively. Remember, your comfort and mobility are important, especially with your active lifestyle, so do not hesitate to advocate for your health.

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The two questions you raised cannot be confirmed without actually observing the lesions. It is recommended that you consult a physician to gain clarity. Specifically, the issue regarding warts should be discussed with your primary care physician.