Welch Allyn Electrosurgical Unit - User Manual - Manual (Page 7)

E. ELECTROSURGICAL PROCEDURES
This section provides only general information about the use of electrosurgical devices.
Only the User can evaluate the clinical factors involved with each patient and determine
if the use of this equipment is indicated. The User must then decide on the specific tech-
nique and procedure that will accomplish the desired clinical effect.
WARNING
Electrosurgical generators are designed to allow the controlled destruction
of tissue and are inherently dangerous if operated improperly.
REPORTED PROBLEMS DUE TO IMPROPER OPERATION DURING
ELECTROSURGICAL PROCEDURES HAVE INCLUDED:
Inadvertent activation with resultant tissue damage at the wrong site and/or
equipment damage.
Alternate current pathways resulting in burns where the patient or physician
or assistant is in contact with exposed metal.
Explosions caused by electrosurgical sparking in a flammable gas mixture
(i.e., explosive anesthetic gases and the inappropriate use of alcohol and
other flammable liquids).
Perforation and massive hemorrhage.
A proper patient return pad pathway is extremely important during any
monopolar electrosurgical procedure. Ensure every effort is made through-
out the electrosurgical procedure, an adequate surface area is provided and
remains in proper contact with the patient to reduce the current density
below a level that might cause inadvertent tissue damage where the patient
return pad is applied.
I. PROFESSIONAL USE GUIDE (cont.)
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Electrosurgical Unit • Instruction Manual