How Frequency of Electrosurgical Current and Electrode Size Affect the Depth of Electrocoagulation

Abstract

Larger-tip electrodes provided deeper coagulation compared with finer-tip electrodes.

Post-coital vaginal cuff dehiscence with small bowel evisceration after laparoscopic type II radical hysterectomy: A case report

“…The depth of coagulation and destruction may not be always predictable. A recent in vitro study evaluating the effect of electrode size on the depth of coagulation showed that use of a sharp point electrode is associated with more superficial coagulation [7] . As in our clinic, electrocautery is commonly used for colpotomy during laparoscopic hysterectomy, which may lead to poor blood supply to the wound [8] .…”

Controlling depth of electrosurgery after curettage of skin tumors—an in vitro study

“…If sparking is present, the power setting can be reduced or the electrode can be moved more rapidly along the tissue to reduce the depth of destruction . Electrodes with smaller electrode–tissue interface provide less depth of coagulation than large‐tip electrodes . Using the edge of the knife‐shaped electrode can theoretically provide a more superficial contact coagulation than the flat side of the electrode.…”

“…20,26,27 Electrodes with smaller electrodetissue interface provide less depth of coagulation than large-tip electrodes. 29 Using the edge of the knife-shaped electrode can theoretically provide a more superficial contact coagulation than the flat side of the electrode. However, it is worth noting that if a high enough power is selected, the edge of a knife-shaped electrode can cut through tissue like an electrosurgical knife.…”