[Uses of endoscopic high frequency diathermy: polypectomy--sphincterotomy (papillotomy)]

Several complications may arise as a consequence of monopolar high frequency diathermy applied for control of hemorrhage, polypectomy and papillotomy because of the specific conditions of current flow. Such complications can be burns, thermic organ damage or dysfunction of implanted cardiac pacemakers. Results and experience obtained during the last decade however show, that this endoscopic method of surgery is efficient and of low risk, if appropriate precautions are taken.