Week 1 Flashcards
Where do you hold electrode with electrofulgeration?
away from the skin, producing a spark and a shallow effect
Where do you hold the electrode with electrodessication?
touch skin or insert into skin to destroy tissue
Which type of device is produced by the hyfrecation machine by Conmed?
electrofulgeration and electrodessication
What are the advantages of a thermal pencil cautery?
low cost indvdl sterl packaging disposable battery powered safe around eyes safe with pacemakers great to drain subungual hematomas
What are advantages of electrosurgical devices?
simple rapid technique controls bleeding compact equipment affordable sterile conditions infection rare use for wide variety of skin lesions
What are disadvantages of electrosurgical devices?
safety risk hypertrophic scars risk of "channeling" smoke can carry particles delayed hemorrhage slow healing obliteration of histology
What are advantages of cryotherapy over electrosurgery?
better for aktinic keratosis and simple warts faster adn easier no anesthesia less scarring no risk of viral infxns no smoke evacuator
What are disadvantages of cryotherapy vs electrosurgery?
causes hypopigmentation
less effective for pedunculated conylomata
final results not seen immediately
more postoperative swelling
What are the advantages of the scalpel versus electrosurgery? Disadvantages?
Advantages: best for shave biopsies inexpensive disposable cleaner edge of wound no heat-induced tissue damage better wound healing and cosmetics Disadvantages: does not control bleeding alone risk of cutting yourself
What are the advantages of electrosurgery over laser?
less expensive
easier to use
laser requires subspecialist
What are the advanteages of laser over electrosurgery?
efficiently cut, coagulate, and destroy
good for resurfacing/removing wrinkles
What are contraindications/cautions based on the pt for use of electrosurgery?
pacemakers
metal plates, pins, prosthetic joints
pt should not touch metal part of treatment cart
Is electrosurgery an appropriate treatment for melanoma? For a lesion around the eye?
No
No
T/F the radiosurgery machine is more efficient for cutting than the hyfrecator with less tissue damage?
T
What are cautions to observe to prevent fires and burns with electrosurgery?
three pronged outlet
do not make or break contact with pt while electrode is activated
pt can’t touch metal
