• electrically induced heat
• high-frequency AC electric current as a cutting or cautery modality
• electric current passes from one electrode to the other

• Monopolar
  • one electrode near tissue
  • one fixed electrode elsewhere (usually buttocks / leg)
  • available modes = cut, blend, desiccate, fulgurate
  • usually favoured because of its versatility and effectiveness for large areas
• Bipolar
  • both electrodes mounted on device
    • tissue is grasped between forceps
  • electric current only passes through the tissue being treated
    • not suitable for large areas
  • prevents flow of current through other tissues
  • used in hand surgery, patients with IED, microsurgery

• Plasmablade
  • Medtronic
  • Radiofrequency
  • Not as good as diathermy, but better than nothing

https://www.mak95.com/studynotes/Equipment%20Safety.html