Several methods are available to help remove granulation tissue, airway cancers, or help treat airway bleeding. Electrocautery uses electricity through a probe that causes heat to build up at the end of the probe. This produces a burn to the tissue, removing it. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) uses a gas ignited by an electric spark to create a plasma beam that causes tissue to burn.
APC is used to remove airway tumor and granulation tissue and treat airway bleeding. Treatments are delivered through either a flexible or rigid bronchoscope.
Benefits of Electrocautery and APC
- Unlike other treatments, electrocautery and APC cause tissue damage by electric and plasma energy
- Both of these treatments offer safety advantages compared to laser treatment
- Provide fast and precise removal of diseased airway tissue
Treatments are delivered by a bronchoscope, and your pulmonary physician may decide based on your particular airway issue which treatment modality to use.