Hazards of Surgical Diathermy PDF
Hazards of Surgical Diathermy PDF
Hazards of Surgical Diathermy PDF
Abstract
Background: Surgical diathermy is an invaluable facility
widely used in the operating theatre. Its application in
surgical practice is rapidly expanding. However, its use
may be accompanied with hazards, which this review is
intended to highlight.
Method:s Publications from local and international
journals were reviewed.
Results: The role of diathermy in surgical practice has
expanded beyond imagination in recent years. The
patient, surgeon and the theatre staff are frequently
exposed to hazards such as burns injury, electrocution,
hypoxic stress, inhalation of diathermy plume, and gene
mutation. However, strict adherence to preventive
measures such as proper connection and handling of
diathermy machine, avoidance of inflammable theatre
gases, the use of suction device, theatre scavenging
system and diathermy plume extraction system could
significantly reduce the hazards.
Conclusion: Continuous exposure to electrocautery
appliances in surgical practice is associated with potential
risks. Optimizing health and safety in work place should
be an ongoing goal. Hence, all methods geared toward
the reduction of these risks to health should be
emphasized.
KEYWORDS: Diathermy, surgery, hazards
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1. Diathermy burns
Application of diathermy too close to skin
Return of current earth to stray contact point
Inadequate application of plate electrode
Break in the cable connecting indifferent electrode
Inadvertent activation of the active electrode
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References
1 Mitchell JP, Lumb GN, Dobbie AK, A handbook of surgical
diathermy 2nd Ed. John Wright & son's Bristol, 1978
2 Memon MA, Surgical diathermy Br J Hospital med 1994;52:403408
3 Ameh EA, Mbibu HN, Principles of surgical diathermy Nig Med
pract1998, 35 No5/6 76-78
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