Electrocardiographic monitoring on a continuous basis is a standard aspect of care in intensive care units and operating rooms. These environments have gradually been filled with more electronic devices for patient care. Due to this trend, the risk of electrical interference between indifference devices has increased. If an electrocardiogram (EKG) is to be interpreted accurately, it must be interpreted as a level of quality that is free from distortion. Even though the reliability of most medical devices has increased significantly due to technological advancement, interference to the electrocardiogram is still a potential issue. At Danlee Medical Products, Inc., we offer a wide range of EKG electrodes for patient care needs.
Below we touch on the aspect of electrocautery interference as it relates to the placement of EKG electrodes.
What is Electrocautery?
Another name for electrocautery is thermal cautery. It involves a process in which an alternating or direct current is directed through a resistant metal wire electrode, producing heat. The heated electrode is placed in the contact with living tissue in order to achieve various levels of tissue destruction or hemostasis. This process can be used in a number of different minor surgical procedures in the practice areas of ophthalmology, urology, otolaryngology dermatology, and plastic surgery.
Often electrocautery (or thermocautery units) are portable, reusable or disposable battery-powered devices. As result, this procedure can be used safely in patients who have electrical devices implanted within their bodies, such as cardiac pacemakers.
Electrocautery-Induced Electrical Interference on the EKG
Electrical interference on an electrocardiogram that is electrocautery-induced is due primarily to exceptionally high frequency currents heating the radiofrequency range of 800 to 1000 kHz. Other potential factors causing electrical interference can be powerline noise in the 50 to 60 Hz range and low-frequency noise in the 0.1 to 10 Hz range.
The need for continuing advancements in the technology of medical equipment to overcome the challenges of electromagnetic, static, and radiofrequency interference continues. These potential interferences are due to recent medical technologies and other devices used in patient care settings.
This issue requires evaluation in the same manner as doctors evaluate conditions and identify diseases. If the diagnosis of this interference and its cause is not done properly, the patient may suffer adverse results.
If you are looking for a supply of EKG electrodes, we have an exceptional selection in our online store. You can count on us at Danlee Medical Products, Inc. as your 24/7 reliable cardiology product and equipment supplier.