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Diathermy awareness among surgeons-An analysis in Ireland
P M McQuail1, B S McCartney1, J F Baker1
1Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Connolly Memorial Hospital, Mill Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, Ireland.
Annals of Medicine and Surgery (2012)
|November 30, 2016
Summary
Many surgeons lack awareness of diathermy principles and risks, despite its common use. Formal training is recommended to improve surgical safety and reduce electrosurgery-induced injuries.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Technology
- Medical Education
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Diathermy is a widely used surgical tool, yet electrosurgery-induced injuries contribute to malpractice claims.
- Despite its routine use, a gap exists in surgeons' understanding of diathermy's principles and associated risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess surgeons' awareness of diathermy principles, risks, precautions, and proper application.
- To identify deficiencies in surgical training regarding electrosurgery safety.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 63 surgeons (Senior House Officer to Consultant) across two teaching hospitals.
- Anonymous questionnaires evaluated knowledge of diathermy principles, hazards, and safety measures.
Main Results:
- 82% of respondents received no formal diathermy training.
- 56% felt their understanding of diathermy principles was inadequate, and 57% showed poor awareness in managing equipment issues.
- 22% were unaware of specific patient groups needing special diathermy precautions.
Conclusions:
- A significant lack of diathermy awareness exists among surgeons.
- A more cautious approach to diathermy use is advocated, emphasizing the need for enhanced surgical training.
- Formal, hospital-based diathermy training is recommended to improve patient safety.
