There are basically two types of electrosurgical techniques used. Monopolar and
Bipolar. Tissue separation (Cut) has so far been possible only by monopolar
techniques, but Maestro Plus 100 has provision for the cut (tissue separation) through
bipolar technique also. The tissue coagulation is possible with both techniques.
MONOPOLAR HF SURGICAL TECHNIQUE
Here the surgeon applies the monopolar electrode to cut or coagulate the tissue.
HF current flows through the tissue to be cut or coagulated via the monopolar
active electrode and out of the tissue via the patient plate and then back to the
instrument. The cut or the coagulation effect depends on the effective contact
area between the active electrode and the tissue which is very small compared
with the contact area between the patient plate and the patient’s skin.
POSITIONING OF THE ELECTRODES AND THE PATIENT
The patient and the electrodes have to be placed in such a manner that the HF current does not pass through the heart. The patient has to be placed well away from the ground by providing good means of insulation techniques.