Electrosurgery devices and procedures are widely used in operating rooms across the globe. Even with this widespread use there are still myths associated with electrosurgery, its devices, and benefits. The myths paint an incorrect and incomplete picture of the benefits of electrosurgery.
Five Common Myths About Electrosurgery:
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Post surgery tissue healing is dependent on the unit's frequency: There is no scientific evidence that proves tissue healing is dependent on an electrosurgery generator's frequency. The use of a higher frequency device will not speed healing. Healing is a condition of the physiology of the tissue and is improved by careful edge approximation, handling, and low wound tension.
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Devices with limited voltage are more dangerous: Electrosurgical generators have a power setting that controls the amount of actual power delivered. At times, a limited voltage device will require a higher setting in order to generate the proper amount of power. This is not dangerous, it is simply a function of mathematical necessity in generating appropriate power.
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Specialized tips change operating characteristics: There are a variety of electrosurgical tips available for use in surgery. Even though the tips are all designed for different purposes, they don't change the electrosurgery operating characteristics, however there is an impact on current density which effects the result.
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Healing is improved with a constant voltage device due to less char: Since there is a decrease in tissue carbonization with constant voltage electrosurgery generators, many believe that overall healing is improved. This may not be the case however. Healing is not a condition of the low amount of char present, it is based on tissue health and aftercare provided to the affected areas.
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Electrosurgical units cause surgical fires: If a fire occurs during an electrosurgical procedure, it is likely due to the misuse of the electrosurgery generators and not from the equipment itself. Each electrosurgical unit is carefully designed and tested to limit the possibility of a surgical fire. Surgeons and practitioners need to carefully monitor the surgical site for high levels of oxygen and flmmable gases or materials to limit the chance of fires.
Bovie Medical has been committed to electrosurgical procedures and advancements for over 30 years. It also serves to educate the medical field about the advantages of electrosurgery and to dispel any myths. The ebook Bovie Medical has published, Understanding Electrosurgery, provides a comprehensive look at electrosurgery for medical professionals interested in learning more about the benefits of electrosurgical procedures.
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" title="Stuart Miles" target="_self">Stuart Miles
