Diathermy

An electrical circuit is created involving the patient, where the patient is the point of resistance generating heat

General

• Frequency 100KHz, DC is used
• Monopolar
  • Active electrode
  • Return electrode else where of large surface area
  • Cut: continuous current with more heat
  • Coag: intermittent with less heat
  • Fulguration: Coagulation over a wider area, with diathermy away from tissue

Bipolar

• Active and return point electrodes at the surgical site