Veterinary Applications of Energy Based Devices

In today's world of advanced technology, the use of energy based devices in the operating room appears to be coming more commonplace - as well it should be.  Time and again these technologically advanced devices make it possible for surgery to be completed more quickly and efficiently.  As Wikipedia explains it, devices such as lasers, ultrasonic or harmonic devices as well as cold plasma and electrosurgical units help to prevent blood loss during surgery through the process of electrocoagulation. And as pointed out in an earlier blog post, excessive bleeding can make it difficult, if not impossible, to find and remove tumors and masses (hence the birth of electrosurgery).

This isn't only useful for surgery performed on humans, either. Veterinary offices have been making great use of the myriad energy based devices which are currently on the market.  In fact these devices, and the surgical techniques they make possible, can be far preferable to traditional methods, such as the use of scalpels.  According to Veterinary Practice News, the use of electrosurgery units (ESUs) results in smaller incisions, less itching and therefore less trouble in terms of keeping the animal away from the area post-surgery.  It only makes sense, then, that more and more veterinary offices are taking advantage of current technology.

The electrosurgical units available today for use in veterinary offices are quite comprehensive.  Not only do they serve as generators, but many come equipped with accessories used specifically in veterinary care.

Truly, between the number of units on the market and the many features which allow for both safety and ease of use on the part of the surgeon, there would appear to be an answer out there to the needs of any practice.  For instance, the Aaron® 940-V High Frequency Desiccator features the ability to change power settings with one step instead of four, as found in a competing device.  The Aaron® 950-V High Frequency Electrosurgical Generator/Desiccator is a true hybrid and allows the doctor to utilize both high frequency desiccation on the one side of the unit and cut, blend and coagulation functions on the other.

Of course there can be very real drawbacks when it comes time to throw away the scalpel in favor of an ESU.  Safety is, of course, paramount when it comes to performing surgery in this manner.  Thankfully, today's energy based devices also feature mechanisms such as self-test circuits and audible tones which ensure the safety of the surgeon, staff and patients alike.  With such measures in place, these energy based devices can be used with the highest level of confidence in their efficiency as well as their safety.

Naturally, a successful surgery is still in the hands of the surgeon.  But proper understanding of the use of energy based devices and best safety practices, combined with surgical skill, are leading to great advancements in the medical field which will inevitably be of benefit to patients - human and animal alike.  Bovie Medical is proud to be the manufacturer of such devices which are not only technologically advanced, but also have an established history of being extremely durable, and able to withstand the rigors of an active veterinary office.