[Diathermy can cause deep burns after alcohol preparation or through direct contact]

Around 36 000 people seek care in Sweden due to burns annually. This usually requires repeated wound care and in some case surgery. Iatrogenic burns are rare but may be deep. One cause could be preparation of a patient with alcohol before surgery, or direct skin contact with a diathermic probe. In this case series we present two patients with this type of burns. These cases highlight the potential harm toward the patient, and it is important to have clear guidelines and take precautions when performing a diathermy.