What does a surgical grounding pad do?

The grounding pad–adhered to the patient’s skin away from the surgical site—is intended to safely return the electrical current from the patient back to the generator through a cord or cable.

Where should a grounding pad be placed?

The grounding pad should be placed close to the operative site on the ipsilateral side of the surgical field. Whenever feasible, the grounding pad should be positioned on well-vascularized areas of the body, preferably with substantial muscle mass, to dissipate heat more readily (Fig. 6.3).

Why is cauterization used?

Cauterization has been used to stop heavy bleeding since antiquity. The process was described in the Edwin Smith Papyrus and Hippocratic Corpus. It was primarily used to control hemorrhages, especially those resulting from surgery, in ancient Greece.

Can your body catch on fire during surgery?

Surgical fires occur in, on, or around a patient who is undergoing a medical or surgical procedure. Surgical fires can occur any time all three elements of the “Fire Triangle” (ignition source, fuel source, and oxygen) are present.

What is a grounding pad made of?

Disposable grounding pads are made of a plastic base material that is covered with a metal film that serves as the actual electrode surface. Covering the metal surface is an adhesive gel layer that can be easily attached to the patient’s skin.

How does a Bovie grounding pad work?

Bovie’s device is a diathermy device that transfers a high frequency current. The current is passed from the probe to the grounding pad. It has been useful for cutting and coagulation.

Do you need grounding pad for bipolar?

Using the bipolar technique no return pad is required because the current only passes through the tissue, not the patient’s entire body. Whether choosing the bipolar method or the monopolar method, electrosurgery is a more efficient way to maximize effectiveness.

Do doctors still cauterize wounds?

Wound cauterization is a routine procedure, but it’s not the first line of treatment. Instead, it’s used only in certain situations. Additionally, cauterization should be done only by a medical professional.

What is cauterization of cervix?

Cervical Cauterization is a procedure wherein heat (or diathermy) is used for treating the cells on the neck of the cervix. This procedure causes delicate, easily broken cells to grow into newer, healthy and strong cells which are unlikely to result in discharge or irregular bleeding.

Why the return electrode or dispersive electrode must placed near to the surgical site?

The reason. Placing the dispersive electrode close to the surgical site decreases the chance of current seeking an alternative pathway during its expected circuit.

Why aren’t patients electrocuted when an electrosurgical unit is used during the procedure?

Modern electrosurgical machines have built-in safety features to prevent burns from occurring due to poor contact between the patient and the return electrode when using the monopolar mode.