Warning Notices
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Non-ionizing radiation is generated in the device!
Internal burns can occur with the incorrect application of shortwave diathermy
due to excessive intensity or excessive exposure time
!
Do not apply shortwave diathermy over the carotid sinus nerves, (located in
the anterior neck triangle), including, stellate ganglion, vagus nerve, or
laryngeal or pharyngeal muscle!
Particular care should be taken for patients
with a known sensitivity to the carotid sinus reflex, as carotid sinus
stimulation may alter blood pressure and cardiac contractility.
over testes, heart or eyes. Electromagnetic effects may affect organ function.
over or in close proximity to active cancer (except in terminal / palliative /
hospice care), as therapy may increase blood flow to the tumor.
when high fever is present, over swollen, severe infection, (osteomyelitis,
sepsis, tuberculosis, etc.), or inflamed areas or skin eruptions, (e.g., phlebitis,
thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, etc.).
over the lumbar or abdominal region, or over the uterus during pregnancy (to
prevent uterine contraction), or during menstruation as therapy may
temporarily increase menstrual flow. over exposed spinal cord (i.e. following
laminectomy, spinal fusion, etc.).
directly over the cranial region, as little is known about the electromagnetic
effects on the cerebrum to determine if it represents a serious hazard when
shortwave diathermy is applied to the head.
in the vicinity of the heart.
directly over the epiphysis of growing bones in children and adolescents
because shortwave diathermy may enhance or inhibit bone growth. Note that
the mean age for skeletal maturity is 15.5 years in females and 17.5 years in
males.
over areas with excess adipose tissue.
over areas of hemorrhage or active bleeding.
over areas with compromised circulation.
directly over or in close proximity to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Thermal
agents should be avoided in early phases of a DVT.
Therapists should follow the guidelines provided by the referring physician on
recommended activity level and modality use.
Before increasing generator output in response to a report of inadequate
patient heating, verify that cables are properly routed, evenly spaced, and away
from any metal or grounded objects. The heating effect may be misdirected and
heating may be occurring in an unwanted area
!
