ABSTRACT
Monopolar electrocoagulation involves the use of an active electrode held in contact with tissue during treatment. Three methods of electrocoagulation have been experimentally studied: monopolar electrocoagulation; bipolar electrocoagulation; and fulguration. The mechanism of blood vessel closure by high-frequency electrocoagulation has been described by B. Sigel and M. R. Dunn and the physical features involved by Sigel and F. L. Hatke. Factors that influence coaptation of vessels by electrocoagulation include: length of coagulation; setting of power source; pressure of contact; milieu of activation of probe; and amount of impedence. Experiments in dogs using bipolar electrocoagulation have shown reduced depth of injury compared to monopolar electrocoagulation. However, available bipolar probes have required precise placement of two electrode tips on the target tissue during electrocoagulation. Extensive research efforts in animal models using mono and bipolar electrocoagulation, electrofulguration, and heater probe modalities have provided general guidelines as to possible modes of application in treating bleeding in patients.
