In vivo measurements of leakage current during transurethral resection.
To estimate the magnitude of leakage current during transurethral resection 3 tape electrodes were applied to the penis and connected to earth through 50 kohm resistances (in order to minimize the current drawn from the neutral plate). A total of maximally 4 mAmp was measured through these electrodes. The measurements were independent of the concentration of hemoglobin in the irrigation fluid, the lubricant applied or whether a Teflon coated shaft was used. The maximum current of 4 mAmp has to pass an area as small as 0.1 mm2 for 0.2 sec in order to produce a second degree burn in the urethra. It is thus concluded that from an electrical point of view transurethral resection is a safe procedure not liable to give rise to any urethral burns. Using an isolated Teflon coated shaft has thus no practical value in reducing the leakage current.
Kay
L
L
Surgical Department K, Frederiksberg Hospital, Denmark.
D002058:Burns, Electric / Q000209:etiology*; D004553:Electric Conductivity; D004598:Electrosurgery / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D011468:Prostatectomy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012307:Risk Factors; D014521:Urethra / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery