2 Safety
900-400_IFU_V1.0.0.6.17.9_20140-S2-20130604-EN
Operating Manual ARC 400
15
2.5.1. Operation area: avoiding ignition and explosions
Sparks are generated when the HF device is used as intended.
Do not use the HF device in areas where there is a risk of explosion.
Do not use any flammable or explosive liquids.
If the display fails, do not use the HF device any longer.
During operations (e.g. in the head or thoracic regions), avoid using ignitable
anesthetics and gases that support combustion (e.g. nitrous oxide or oxygen) or
extract them using a vacuum system.
Use exclusively non-flammable cleaning agents, disinfectants and solvents (for
adhesives). If you use flammable cleaning agents, disinfectants or solvents,
ensure that they have fully evaporated before using HF surgical equipment.
Ensure that no flammable liquids collect beneath the patient or in body cavities
(e.g. the vagina). Suction and/or flush body cavities before activating the device.
Wipe off all liquids before using the HF device.
Ensure that no ignitable endogenous gases are present.
Ensure that all materials saturated with oxygen (e.g. cotton or gauze) are kept far
enough away from the HF environment that they cannot ignite.
2.5.2. Applying the neutral electrode
Observe the instructions on the use of the neutral electrode in the user
guide and the information on the package of the neutral electrode.
In the monopolar HF method, the neutral electrode feeds the current introduced
into the patient’s body at the surgical site back to the HF device.
To prevent a rise in temperature at the current exit point, the following conditions
must be ensured:
sufficiently large contact surface between the neutral electrode and
the patient’s body;
high electrical conductivity between the neutral electrode and the
patient’s body.
