Electrosurgery is a ubiquitous technology in common use in laparoscopic and open surgery across all surgical disciplines. While this technology is safe when used properly, a potential exists for unintended delivery of energy through multiple mechanisms. Proper understanding of basic electrophysics is important to understanding the basic mechanisms of failure. We present a review of these basic concepts, as well as multiple case vignettes of surgical complications with explanations of the described principles. (J GYNECOL SURG 38:264)
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