Monopolar Electrosurgical Pencil

Description

Electrocautery Pencil (Monopolar Electrosurgical Pencil)

The electrocautery pencil (also known as a monopolar electrosurgical pencil) is a primary and essential accessory for an electrosurgical unit (ESU). Its function is analogous to the electrode clamp of a welding machine, without which welding or cutting would be impossible.

An electrosurgical unit is a radiofrequency generator to which two electrodes are connected. One of these electrodes, known as the active electrode, typically has a smaller cross-sectional area and is designed in the form of a pen-like instrument called an electrocautery pencil. Due to the smaller surface area of this electrode compared to the other electrode (the return electrode), a higher current density is created, resulting in significant heat generation. This heat is used for cutting or coagulating body tissues. For this reason, the electrocautery pencil is also referred to as an electric cutting knife.

The electrocautery pencil has a shape similar to a surgical scalpel, and its handle is insulated. Two switches are located on the handle, one for cutting and the other for coagulation, which apply current to the probe. The yellow button near the pencil tip is for the cutting mode, and the blue button is for the coagulation mode.

Electrocautery pencils are divided into two types: reusable and disposable. They are available in single-pin and three-pin models to be compatible with various electrosurgical units, such as those from Martin, Erbe, and Valleylab. Additionally, some models of electrocautery pencils allow for the replacement of the electrode tip, enabling the user to utilize different tip shapes according to their needs. When selecting a pencil and tip, attention should be paid to the diameter of the tip’s base, as the size of the tip’s socket varies among different types of reusable pencils.

Electrocautery pencil tips are manufactured in various sizes and are suitable for different surgical procedures. The cross-section of these tips is always smooth and polished to prevent tissue adhesion.

Features of the Electrocautery Pencil

• Lightweight design for easy handling
• Equipped with two control buttons for simple operation
• Manufactured from high-quality industrial materials
• Ergonomic design for optimal pencil utilization
• Interface cable with appropriate length and flexibility
• Disposable, pre-disinfected, and sterile

Important Considerations When Using an Electrocautery Pencil

1. The electrocautery pencil should not have any fractures, cracks, or chips.
2. The pencil cord should not have any tears or punctures at any point.
3. Electrocautery pencils not in use during the operation should be kept away from the device and the patient’s body to prevent accidental burns or injury to the patient or surgical team.
4. The electrocautery pencil should always be clean and free of any traces of previous use.
5. Ultrasonic cleaning baths or hot air devices should not be used to clean the electrocautery pencil. It is best to clean the pencil with alcohol or disinfectants according to the cleaning instructions after each use, and if necessary, sterilize the pencil in an autoclave at a maximum temperature of 134 degrees Celsius.