2-2
Valleylab FT10 Energy Platform User’s Guide
General Warnings and Precautions
General Warnings and Precautions
Fire/Explosion Hazards
Warning
Danger - Explosion Hazard
Do not use electrosurgery in the presence of flammable anesthetics
or oxidizing gases (such as nitrous oxide (N
2
O and oxygen) or in close proximity of to volatile
solvents (such as ether or alcohol).
Fire Hazard
Do not place active instruments near or in contact with flammable materials (such
as gauze or surgical drapes). Electrosurgical instruments that are activated or hot from use can
cause a fire. When not in use, place electrosurgical instruments in a safety holster or safely away
from patients, the surgical team, and flammable materials.
Sparking and heating associated with electrosurgery can be an ignition source. Keep gauze and
sponges wet. Keep electrosurgical electrodes away from flammable materials and oxygen (O
2
)
enriched environments.
Use of electrosurgery in O
2
rich environments increases the risk of fire. Therefore, take measures
to reduce the O
2
concentration at the surgical site.
If possible, stop supplemental oxygen at least one minute before and during use of electrosurgery.
The use of non-flammable agents is recommended for cleaning and disinfecting wherever possible.
If flammable agents are used, do not activate the energy platform until flammable vapors from
skin-preparation solutions and tinctures have dissipated.
There is a risk of pooling of flammable solutions under the patient or in body depressions, such as
the umbilicus, and in body cavities, such as the vagina. Any fluid pooled in these areas should
removed before activating the energy platform.
Avoid the accumulation of naturally occurring flammable gases that may accumulate in body
cavities such as the bowel.
Prevent the accumulation of flammable or oxidizing gases or vapors under surgical drapes or near
the surgical site.
Tissue buildup (eschar) on the tip of an active electrode may create embers that pose a fire hazard,
especially in oxygen-enriched environments. Keep the electrode clean and free of all debris.
Facial and other body hair is flammable. Water soluble surgical lubricating jelly may be used to
cover hair close to the surgical site to decrease flammability.
Verify that all anesthesia circuit connections are leak free before and during use of electrosurgery.
Fire Hazard During Oropharyngeal Surgery
Verify endotracheal tubes are leak free and that the cuff seals properly to prevent oxygen leaks.
If an uncuffed tube is in use, pack the throat with wet sponges around the uncuffed tube, and be
sure to keep sponges wet throughout the procedure.
Question the need for 100% O
2
during oropharyngeal or head and neck surgery.
If necessary, scavenge excess O
2
with separate suction.
Do not attempt to recharge the generator’s lithium battery. This can cause the battery to explode.
