Diathermy

Question 1

What are the advantages of monopolar diathermy?

Answer 1

Performs both cutting and coagulation

Question 2

What is the power of monopolar diathermy?

Answer 2

400W

Question 3

What are the disadvantages of monopolar diathermy?

Answer 3

Can interfere with pacemaker function
Superficial burns
Diathermy burns

Question 4

How is electrocution prevented in monopolar diathermy?

Answer 4

High frequency

Question 5

What are the advantages of bipolar diathermy?

Answer 5

Greater accuracy

Less tissue damage

Question 6

What are the disadvantages of bipolar diathermy?

Answer 6

Performs only coagulation

Question 7

What is the power of bipolar diathermy?

Answer 7

50W

Question 8

What is meant by fulguration?

Answer 8

When the electrode is held away from the tissue, the air gap between the electrode and the tissue becomes ionised. An electric arc is discharged and superficial tissue burning occurs.

Question 9

What waveform is required for a cutting current in diathermy?

Answer 9

Continuous sinusoidal waveform of low frequency

Question 10

What waveform is required for a coagulation current in diathermy?

Answer 10

Intermittent high voltage

Question 11

What is meant by a blended waveform in diathermy?

Answer 11

Combines bursts of low-voltage (cutting) and high-voltage (coagulation) currents and produces cutting and coagulation effects.