The electro-scalpel is an electrical instrument used in operating rooms to cut or coagulate tissues and cauterize them at the same time, to avoid unwanted bleeding. It is also known as an electric scalpel, surgical unit, or HF device. It is used in many specialties, such as obstetrics, dentistry, dermatology, and veterinary medicine, to name a few.
How an electric scalpel works
Primarily, by means of two electrodes applied to the body, the electric scalpel circulates currents above 200,000 Hz up to 3 GHz, using an electric generator; and thus it manages to produce controllable heat in the applied place, with which the electro section or electrocoagulation of the tissue is carried out, depending on the case.
The electro-scalpel generates a thermal effect produced by the high-frequency alternating current used by the instrument, avoiding effects such as; the electrolytic effect or the faradic effect, which would take place if the current were used with frequencies below 200,000 Hz.
The electrolytic effect occurs when direct current is applied, generating a current of ions that cause tissue damage. Whereas, the faradic effect takes place when a low frequency alternating current is applied to the tissue, capable of causing ventricular fibrillation, tetany and even the death of the patient; since lower intensity frequencies stimulate nerves and muscles. That is why direct current is not used, or low or medium frequency.
Disadvantage of the electric scalpel
However, the electrosurgical knife, because it is electric, does not escape the risks in its use, because the burns caused by electricity are much deeper than those produced by flame. It is capable of generating complications such as tissue necrosis with deep thrombosis, if the respective provisions are not taken.
Usefulness of the electric scalpel
The electrosurgical unit is an instrument used for electrocautery, electrosection, electrofulguration, electrodesiccation and electrocoagulation. And that is where its importance lies. It is an instrument capable of cutting and cauterizing tissues quickly and with minimal thermal damage, in addition to favorable aesthetic results; providing considerable time savings. It also ensures effective asepsis, reducing the probability of transmission of infections from diseased tissues to healthy tissues. As well as, decreases the bleeding of the tissues.
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