Novel Analyzer Helps Calibrate Electrosurgical Devices

A high power load bank enables performance testing up to 6 A RMS with a duty cycle of up to 100%; concomitantly, a large arrays of internal resistors—ranging from 0–5100 Ω in 5 Ω steps—provide accurate and detailed power curves and output waveforms, seen using the built-in scope output which allows easy confirmation of the desired waveform shape.

Remote electrode monitoring capability is carried out using a rotary encoder, which also controls a potentiometer that scales up and down in either manual or automatic modes to capture the alarms using an on-screen dedicated fast key. Other features include built-in memory, test automation, comprehensive data management facilities (including onboard storage for future traceability), and Bluetooth-enabled connectivity to allow fast and convenient downloading of test data for automatic comparison against preset power curves over time, and to manufacturer’s specifications.

Upper and lower limits of performance can be established and tolerances refined to ensure that operational norms are maintained, and the power distribution curves can be uploaded to confirm compliance with manufacturer test specific programs. The Uni-Therm analyzer is a product of Rigel Medical (Durham, United Kingdom), and is compliant with international electrotechnical commission (IEC) code 60601-2-2, which specifies the requirements for the safety of high frequency surgical equipment and accessories used in medical practice.

“We are dealing with important operating theatre equipment and it is therefore vital that the highest levels of safety and performance standards are maintained,” said Steve Griffiths, service manager at Freelance Surgical (Bristol, United Kingdom). “The simple to operate technical capabilities of the Uni-Therm mean we can reliably and regularly analyze devices, monitor the results over time, and identify any changes to performance that should be rectified.”

Electrosurgical equipment use high frequency electricity to produce enough heat to enable surgeons to cut tissue or seal bleeding vessels during operations. The sophisticated devices work by using the body as a conductor; to ensure the highest levels of patient safety, it is critical that the performance of surgical generators is verified on a regular basis.

Related Links:
Rigel Medical
Freelance Surgical