Silver nitrate cautery sticks are used for chemical cauterisation by means of a mixture of silver nitrate and potassium nitrate applied to the tip. They are used externally in a wide variety of applications.
The removal of warts and use in podiatry (e.g. for corns) are common applications. The procedure is quick, simple and usually completely painless. Various concentrations (50%, 75%), stick lengths (115 mm, 200 mm) and materials (wood – rigid, plastic – flexible) are available for treatment. Different groups of healthcare professionals have developed their own preferences, and there are no formal recommendations regarding strength, length or material.
Umbilical cord stumps in newborns can be easily removed using our caustic sticks; this procedure should be carried out by a doctor or midwife. In this case, only silver nitrate caustic sticks with a 50% concentration should be used.
Silver nitrate has an astringent and scab-forming effect, whilst potassium nitrate serves to mitigate the effect of the silver nitrate. Silver nitrate cautery sticks allow for precise, localised application, ensuring that the effect is confined to the desired area.