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Unrecognized hazards of surgical electrodes passed through metal suction-irrigation devices

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Abstract

Surgical electrodes, passed through metal suction-irrigation devices, pose significant risks for unrecognized visceral burns through capacitively coupled current using monopolar electrosurgery. Plastic cannulas (and reducers) should be avoided with the metal suction-irrigation electrode; an all-metal trocar cannula confers limited safety. With surgeon education and advances in engineering, the potential for unrecognized visceral injury with capacitive coupling can be eliminated.

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Voyles, C.R., Tucker, R.D. Unrecognized hazards of surgical electrodes passed through metal suction-irrigation devices. Surg Endosc 8, 185–187 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00591827

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00591827

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