Introduction
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EM3 AEM Monitor User’s Guide
Active Electrode Monitoring
Active electrode monitoring technology can eliminate the risk of stray electrical energy
caused by insulation failure and capacitive coupling and thus helps to prevent unintended
internal burn injury to the patient. AEM instruments direct electrosurgical energy where the
surgeon desires, while continuously monitoring the current flow to prevent stray
electrosurgical energy from insulation failure or capacitive coupling.
AEM instruments have a patented, multi-layered design with a built-in shield, much like the
third wire ground in standard electrical cords. The shield in these instruments is referenced
back to a monitor at the electrosurgical generator. In the event of a harmful level of stray
electrical energy, the monitor shuts down the power; ensuring patient safety. The AEM
system protects against capacitive coupling by providing a neutral return path for capacitively
coupled electrical current. Capacitively coupled energy is continually drained away from the
instrument and away from the patient through the protective shield built into all AEM
instruments.
Monopolar Electrosurgery
In monopolar electrosurgery, the surgical instrument contains only the active electrode. A
separate return electrode attached to the patient recovers the current that passes through the
patient and returns it safely to the electrosurgical generator.
Monopolar electrosurgery is used for most surgical procedures that require sparking to
tissue, such as those in which tissue must be cut or coagulated over wide areas.
Bipolar Electrosurgery
In bipolar electrosurgery, the surgical instrument includes both electrodes. A patient return
electrode is not used. Current flows between the two electrodes and through the tissue
contacted by the instrument, heating that tissue.
In bipolar electrosurgery, control is needed to ensure the correct degree of heating.