The surgeon used the ESU in monopolar mode to cut and coagulate through the subcutaneous tissue on opening the abdomen during a bariatric bypass procedure.As she began to proceed through the muscle and fascia layer,she asked the circulating nurse to increase the cut and
Coagulation modes on the ESU.What measure could the scrub person take to enhance energy delivery?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a monopolar system,electrical energy flows from the generator through an active electrode to the patient.If energy is concentrated in a small area,and the tissue provides increased impedance,controlled heat is generated and cutting or coagulation is achieved.Tissue type also influences tissue effect.Tissue that is not well vascularized,such as adipose tissue,offers more impedance.As a result,electrical energy is not conducted as well,and higher power settings may be required.Muscle tissue is well vascularized and requires less power to achieve a tissue effect.Charred tissue on the active electrode blade can impair energy delivery.

The Surgeon Used the ESU in Monopolar Mode to Cut