Describe thermal surgical techniques and related safety issues.

Description should include

• electrosurgery (use of electricity)
• laser surgery (use of a focused light beam)
• cryosurgery (use of cold).

Description should also address

• safety issues (i.e., the importance of preventing burns, electrocution, smoke damage, and frostbite)
• the need for special eye protection, a smoke evacuator, and/or other aids to avoid harm to the surgical team and the patient.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What types of medical conditions require thermal surgical techniques? Why?
• During thermal surgery, what precautions should be taken with the patient and surgical team to prevent burns? Electrocution? Smoke damage? Frostbite?
• In what circumstances might a surgeon make use of electrosurgery? Laser surgery? Cryosurgery? Why?