SurgiStat Low-Power Electrosurgical Generator Service Manual
5-3
Inspecting the Generator and Accessories
Generator Operation
In some circumstances, potential exists for alternate site burns at points of skin contact
(e.g.,between the arm and the side of the body). This occurs when electrosurgical current seeks a
path to the patient return electrode that includes the skin-to-skin contact point. Current passing
through small skin-to-skin contact points is concentrated and may cause a burn. This is true for
grounded, ground referenced, and isolated output generators.
To reduce the potential for alternate site burns, do one or more of the following:
•
Avoid skin-to-skin contact points, such as fingers touching leg, when positioning the patient.
•
Place 5 – 8 cm (2 – 3 in.) of dry gauze between contact points to ensure that contact does
not occur.
•
Position the return electrode to provide a direct current route between the surgical site and
the return electrode which avoids skin-to-skin contact areas.
•
In addition, place return electrodes according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Potential for alternate site burns increases if the return electrode is compromised. Covidien
recommends the use of split return electrodes and Covidien generators with a contact-quality
monitoring system.
Precaution
Do not stack equipment on top of the generator or place the generator on top of electrical
equipment. These configurations are unstable and/or do not allow adequate cooling.
Provide as much distance as possible between the electrosurgical generator and other electronic
equipment (such as monitors). An activated electrosurgical generator may cause interference with
them.
Non-function of the generator may cause interruption of surgery. A backup generator should be
available for use.
Do not turn the activation tone down to an inaudible level. The activation tone alerts the surgical
team when an accessory is active.
When using a smoke evacuator in conjunction with the electrosurgical generator, place the smoke
evacuator at a distance from the generator and set the generator volume control at a level that
ensures that the activation tones can be heard.
Notice
If required by local codes, connect the generator to the hospital equalization connector with an
equipotential cable.
Connect the power cord to a wall outlet having the correct voltage. Otherwise, product damage
may result.
Do not clean the generator with abrasive cleaning or disinfectant compounds, solvents, or other
materials that could scratch the panels or damage the generator.
Warning
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