In a monopolar electrosurgical procedure, a pencil-like electrode is used to cut the target tissue and/or coagulate bleeding. A return electrode pad is utilized and attached to the patient and safely retrieves energy that passes through the body..

How does a cautery machine work?

During electrocautery, current does not enter the patient's body. Instead, current flows through a heating element, which burns the tissue by direct transfer of heat. Electrocautery or, more precisely, thermocautery units (Figure 3) are usually portable battery powered devices that can be either disposable or reusable.

What is monopolar cautery used for?

Monopolar electrosurgery can be used for several modalities including cut, blend, desiccation, and fulguration. Using a pencil instrument, the active electrode is placed in the entry site and can be used to cut tissue and coagulate bleeding.