Electrosurgery

Electrosurgery is a common surgical technique which uses high-frequency electrical current to cut, coagulate, desiccate, or fulgurate tissue. Its benefits include the ability to make precise cuts with limited blood loss. Electrosurgical devices are frequently used during surgical operations helping to prevent blood loss in hospital operating rooms or in outpatient procedures.

History

The use of electricity in medicine has been documented as early as 400 BC when electric fish were used to generate a weak electrical current to relieve pain. The development of modern electrosurgery is most commonly attributed to Dr. William T. Bovie who invented the Bovie knife, an electrosurgical instrument, in 1926.

Types of Electrosurgery

There are two types of electrosurgery: monopolar and bipolar. Monopolar electrosurgery is often used for tissue cutting and coagulation. It is also used in laparoscopic procedures. Bipolar electrosurgery is used for coagulating tissue in a targeted area and is often used in sensitive areas or areas difficult to reach.

Uses

Electrosurgery is used in dermatological, gynecological, cardiac, plastic, ocular, spine, ENT, maxillofacial, orthopedic, urological, neurological and general surgical procedures as well as certain dental procedures.

Risks

While electrosurgery is generally safe, risks and complications may include electrical burns, tissue damage and complications caused by the smoke plume produced during electrosurgical procedures.

See Also

• Surgery
• Laparoscopic surgery
• Bovie knife
• Monopolar electrosurgery
• Bipolar electrosurgery

References

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