E
lectrosurgery is one of the most complicated disciplines
that surgeons perform. There's a steep learning curve
and there are numerous variables. Though one of its pri-
mary functions is to cut tissue, it's not, as many seem to
think, "just like using a scalpel." The other primary func-
tion is controlling bleeding, which involves adjusting the flow of cur-
rent so that it's intermittent, while simultaneously increasing voltage.
The goal is to be able to create the perfect waveform. That continu-
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O U T P A T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
New Currents in
Electrosurgery
Arnold P. Advincula, MD, FACOG, FACS
New York, N.Y.
Pamela
Bevelhymer,
RN,
BSN
z SWEET SPOT Finding the right
blend of current flow and voltage
is one key to electrosurgical safety.
Recent innovations are improving safety and con-
venience.
