ABSTRACT
The firestick or Bovie is an electrosurgery device that permits cutting, coagulation, cauterization, desiccation or fulguration by applying a high-frequency current through a metallic probe to a tissue. In monopolar diathermy, electrical current passes from the probe to a fixed indifferent electrode placed elsewhere on the body. Electrocoagulation through bipolar diathermy is a technique in which both electrodes are on the same instrument, and the area for electrocoagulation is placed between the two probe surfaces so that current passes between the probes and not through the patient. Ultrasonic devices that apply high-frequency ultrasound achieve electrocoagulation through mechanical energetic breakdown of protein to create a local coagulum. Laser-based systems, typically used in ophthalmology, obstetrics and gynaecology, and dentistry are also used. Excessive use can also damage the surgeon and theatre staff. The smoke from diathermy has been analysed to reveal traces of diseased tissue, microbes and infectious agents.
