The most often asked question before buying a new electrosurgical generator is, "I have all of these accessories that I would like to use up, will they fit the new unit?" Fortunately the industry has done a pretty good job making most electrodes, pencils and pads interchangeable. Even in the one instance of a smaller diameter electrode, that can be simply addressed with an adapter. The exceptions are in the hand pieces on the high frequency desiccators and foot switches are unique to all generators. Otherwise, most of what you have is still usable.
Another question often heard is on the expense of the OR generator for the private practice or surgery center. While the OR generators are excellent, they are frequently overkill for the types of procedures being performed outside the hospital. Most companies have a smaller than OR machine which may do the job perfectly well. Bovie happens to offer three smaller machines at 200, 120 and 60 watts of cutting power that will save thousands of dollars depending on which one if right for you. Naturally a standard 300 watt OR system is available, and if that is really what you want, then enjoy!
The third most common question is on built in safety. Naturally, everyone must pass all of the UL type tests before you can sell the product in the USA. But equally important is in pad sensing technology. Each company that offers pad sensing calls it by a different name. But no matter the name, make sure you are using a split pad. The machine must be designed with the sensing technology to use a split pad, but this increases your odds of a safe procedure. Even some of the smaller machines offer this feature, so make sure and ask for it.
Feel free to contact us or leave a comment below.
J. Robert Saron
President, Bovie Medical Corporation
Photo courtesy of anankkml.
