First Year Fellows Endoscopy Course (August 7 - 8)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Joel Munzer, a professor at Medical University of South Carolina, gave a talk on electrocautery in gastrointestinal endoscopy. He explained that electrocautery is a misnomer and the correct term is electrosurgery, where electrical current is used to heat the tissue. He discussed the two main tissue effects achieved through electrosurgery, cutting and coagulation, and the importance of understanding the voltage levels for each effect. Dr. Munzer emphasized the need to understand the equipment and the effect of different currents on tissue, as well as the importance of setting up the equipment correctly and knowing the different currents available. He also discussed the principles of grounding pad safety and the potential implications of monopolar current on patients with ICDs and pacemakers. Dr. Munzer highlighted the use of argon plasma coagulation (APC) in various procedures, including its potential for treating GI neoplasia and closing gastrointestinal fistulae. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of understanding electrosurgical currents and having a good working knowledge of the effects they have on tissue to ensure safety and efficiency during procedures.

Asset Subtitle

B. Joseph Elmunzer, MD

Keywords

electrosurgery

tissue effects

equipment setup

current effects

argon plasma coagulation

safety and efficiency