Industry Knowledge
Understanding How Electrosurgical Pencils Achieve Cutting vs. Coagulation
1. Physics Behind Electrosurgery
Electrosurgical pencils operate using high-frequency alternating current (AC) in the radiofrequency (RF) range (typically 300 kHz to 500 kHz). This frequency is above the threshold that stimulates nerves or muscles, so it doesn’t cause muscle contraction or cardiac interference.
How Current Affects Tissue:
Resistance heating: Human tissue has electrical resistance. When current flows through it, heat is generated.
Cellular response: The water inside cells heats up rapidly, leading to different effects depending on the temperature:
60–100°C: Protein denaturation → coagulation
>100°C: Water vaporization → cell rupture
>200°C: Charring and smoke production
>400°C: Vaporization of organic material → clean incision
At Suzhou Texnet, we understand the importance of precision and safety in surgical environments. That’s why we not only provide high-quality disposable medical products such as drapes, gowns, gloves, and kits, but also ensure compatibility and compliance with international standards for use alongside advanced tools like electrosurgical pencils.
2. Modes of Operation and Their Effects
Cutting Mode
Waveform: Continuous, undamped RF sine wave.
Power Output: High voltage, low duty cycle (current flows continuously).
Effect: Rapid heating causes intracellular water to vaporize , rupturing cells and creating a clean, precise cut with minimal charring.
Temperature: ~400–600°C at the electrode tip.
Use Cases: Ideal for making surgical incisions in non-bleeding or minimally vascular tissues (e.g., skin, fascia).
In conjunction with these procedures, disposable items such as sterile drapes, gowns, and gloves supplied by Suzhou Texnet help maintain aseptic conditions and reduce infection risk.
Coagulation Mode
Waveform: Interrupted or pulsed RF waveforms (damped or modulated).
Power Output: Lower average power, but higher peak voltage in pulses.
Effect: Slower heating leads to denaturation of proteins and sealing of blood vessels without vaporizing tissue.
Temperature: ~100–200°C.
Use Cases: Used for hemostasis (stopping bleeding), sealing lymphatics, or treating highly vascular areas (e.g., liver, spleen).
Our disposable products are designed to support a wide variety of clinical settings, including those requiring high levels of sterility and performance during delicate coagulation procedures.
Blend Mode (Optional)
Waveform: Mix of continuous and pulsed waves.
Effect: Combines cutting action with some degree of coagulation.
Use Cases: Useful when operating in moderately vascular tissues where both cutting and hemostasis are needed (e.g., bowel mesentery, muscle layers).
3.Safety Considerations
Improper use can lead to complications:
Burns: From stray currents or improper grounding pad placement.
Fire Hazards: In oxygen-rich environments or near flammable substances (e.g., alcohol prep solutions).
Smoke Plume: Generated during cutting can contain toxic gases and particles; suction systems should be used.
Capacitive Coupling: In monopolar setups, current may arc to unintended paths if not grounded properly.
To complement these safety measures, our disposable medical supplies are engineered to minimize contamination risks and enhance overall procedural safety.
4. Technological Advancements
Modern electrosurgical units offer:
Smart modulation: Real-time impedance feedback adjusts output for optimal results.
Integrated smoke evacuation: Reduces surgical plume and improves visibility.
Multiple preset modes: Customizable settings for specific tissues or procedures.
Safety alarms: Detect insulation failure or pad displacement.
As technology evolves, Suzhou Texnet remains committed to staying ahead of the curve by offering innovative, compliant, and cost-effective disposable solutions tailored to modern surgical workflows.