An understanding of the principles of operation and hazards of the surgical diathermy is necessary for the safety of the anaesthetized patient. The surgical diathermy performs its function by the application of high density radio frequency current which can be used to cut or coagulate tissue. Its improper use can result in electrical burns and even electrocution. The principles underlying its safe use are outlined, and detailed recommendations are made to ensure the patient's safety.
References
1.
American Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, 1975. “Safe Current Limits Standard”, A.A.M.I., Arlington VA.
2.
BeckerC. M., MalhotraI. V., and Hedley-WhyteJ. (1973): “The Distribution of Radio-Frequency Current and Burns”, Anesthesiology, 38, 106.
3.
BrownB. H., JohnsonS. G., BettsR. P., and HenryL. (1977): “Burns Threshold to Radio-Frequency Leakage Currents from Surgical Diathermy Equipment”, J. Med. Engineering and Technology, Sept. 1977, 277.
4.
DobbieA. K. (1969): “The Electrical Aspects of Surgical Diathermy”, Biomedical Engineering4, 206.
5.
Emergency Care Research Institute, 1977. “Proposed Standard for Performance and Safety of Electromedical Devices”, Emergency Care Research Institute, 5200 Butler Pike, PA 19462.
6.
National Fire Protection Association, Document 76C, (1975): “High Frequency Electrical Equipment in Hospitals”, National Fire Protection Association, 470 Atlantic Ave., Boston MA 02210.
7.
OvermeyerK. M., PearceJ. A., and De WittD. P. (1977): “Measurements of Temperature Distributions at Electrosurgical Dispersive Electrode Sites”, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Heat Transfer Division, Proceedings of Winter Annual Meeting, Atlanta, Georgia.
8.
SimonA. B. (1977): “Perioperative Management of the Pacemaker Patient”, Anesthesiology, 46, 127.
