Radiofrequency2

Question 1

Surgical technique

-pre-op procedure/questions

Answer 1

Pre-op photos
Signed consent
BP/pulse/VA
Allergies to meds, latex, materials?
List of current meds
Pacemaker?

Question 2

Surgical technique

-skin prep (and injection)

Answer 2

Clean injection site with alcohol pad

Mark lesion -> inject -> mechanical deturgescence

Clean lesion and surr area with povidone-iodine 10%

Place sterile drape

Test lesion with toothed tissue forceps

Turn on machine/vacuum

Choose appropriate radiofreq setting and make pt and self comfortable

Question 3

Surgical technique

-injection prep

Answer 3

Prep syringe with Lidocaine 0.5% with epi 1:200,000
-no epi for HTN, current med or CV problems, sulfite sensitivity, hepatic dz, TCAs, MAOIs, specific locations

Inject bevel up, pointing away from globe
-aspirate first, inject while pulling back

Question 4

Surgical technique

-procedure

Answer 4

Perpendicular tip

Press footplate to begin

Cut at 7mm per sec

Never stop moving electrode while activated

Keep tissue moist and taught

Never push downward on lesion

Question 5

Surgical technique
-troubleshooting the procedure
—tissue dragging
—sparking or burning

Answer 5

Tissue dragging

• dry surface
• too little energy
• carbon build-up on tip
• ground plate out of place

Sparking or burning

• too much energy
• stationary tip

Question 6

Surgical technique

-post-op

Answer 6

Clean area with povidone-iodine 10% (optional)

Apply antibiotic ointment

BP/pulse/VA

Pt instructions/wound care handout

F/U appointment