Procedures

Question 1

What is the difference between bipolar and monopolar diathermy?

Answer 1

• In monopolar diathermy current passes from the active electrode through the tissues being operated on to an electrode plate on the patient. The current is disseminated thought a larger surface area of at least 70 cm2 than it originated in, therefore preventing a heating effect at the plate electrode.
• In bipolar diathermy, current passes between the two tips of the active electrodes, therefore only passing
  though tissue that lies between the tips. There is no plate electrode