7
Electrode Styles
Ball end:
These are best for hemostasis purposes.
Loop end
: These electrodes work nicely with skin tumors or
gingival hyperplasia. The loop encircles and slices through tissue.
Circle and diamond loop
configurations a
re available.
Straight:
Thin wires work well for cutting. The heavier wires work
well for hemostasis.
Caution
1)
Radio frequency can interfere with heart pacemakers. Consult a
physician before exposing anyone wearing a pacemaker to radio
frequency waves.
2)
Various ECG and monitoring equipment can be
affected
by radio
frequency waves. Place these items as far away from the Indifferent
Plate as possible.
3)
When changing electrodes do not have the foot pedal
depressed.
4)
Electrosurgery can give
off
sparks and ignite
fl
ammable
liquids or gases.
5)
Electrosurgery still requires anesthesia or analgesia.
6)
The operator can
inflict
wounds, burns, or shocks to themselves
through inappropriate use. Just as misuse of a scalpel can cut
you, so can misuse of electrosurgery units.
