Monopolar electrosurgical flash fire

A 78-year-old man underwent ectropion repair with a monopolar electrosurgical unit. A flash fire occurred, resulting in a loss of eyelashes of the left upper and lower eyelids. A retrospective analysis of the case was conducted, including a review of the relevant literature. Although rare, the possibility of a flash fire should be considered when performing surgery with an electrosurgical unit. Minimizing supplemental oxygen and electrosurgical power settings may help to avoid such an incident.