FLEXOPLATE

Typical Number in Hospital:

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References: 2

Traditionally monopolar surgical diathermy has been conducted using an indifferent electrode made of lead and wrapped in a saline-soaked gauze. Satisfactory results can be obtained using a Flexoplate, which is a dry electrode, provided intimate contact with the skin can be maintained. Since dry skin is a good electrical insulator, the Flexoplate (this is in fact a trade name) works by capacitance, which presents only a small impedance to the electric current at the frequencies used for surgical diathermy. It is usually made of plastic-backed metal foil, is about 10 cm square, and the foil is cut in a special pattern to permit the use of a Flexoplate monitor in the diathermy set to recognize accidental disconnection of the indifferent electrode connections.

The plate is normally applied around the thigh by a wide bandage or an inflatable cuff.