A procedure that uses heat or a chemical to burn and destroy tissues.
When the tool used for cauterization is heated with electricity, it is called electrocautery. When chemicals are applied directly to the tissue, it is called chemical cautery.
Cauterization is used to destroy abnormal tissue or cancer cells. It is also used to seal off blood vessels to stop bleeding.
The information that the Canadian Cancer Society provides does not replace your relationship with your doctor. The information is for your general use, so be sure to talk to a qualified healthcare professional before making medical decisions or if you have questions about your health.
We do our best to make sure that the information we provide is accurate and reliable but cannot guarantee that it is error-free or complete.
The Canadian Cancer Society is not responsible for the quality of the information or services provided by other organizations and mentioned on cancer.ca, nor do we endorse any service, product, treatment or therapy.
1-888-939-3333 | cancer.ca | © 2025 Canadian Cancer Society