2 Safety
16
Operating Manual ARC 400
900-400_IFU_V1.0.0.6.17.9_20140-S2-20130604-EN
To prevent the patient being burned by the neutral electrode, you must comply with
the following conditions:
Select the application point for the neutral electrode so that the
current paths between the active and neutral electrodes are as
short as possible and run longitudinally or diagonally through the
patient’s body (because muscles are more conductive in the
direction of the fibrils).
Figure 2-1:
Application point of neutral electrode
For surgery in the thoracic region, do not run the current path
transversely across the patient’s body and ensure that the patient’s
heart is never in the current path.
Depending on the surgical site, apply the neutral electrode to the
nearest upper arm or thigh if possible, but never closer than 20 cm.
In the case of self-adhesive disposable electrodes, comply with any
further manufacturer instructions regarding the point of application.
Ensure that the application area is free of scar tissue, bony
protuberances, surface hair and ECG electrodes.
Ensure that there are no implants (e.g. bone nails, bone plates or
endoprostheses) in the current path.
Ensure that no short circuits can occur at the neutral electrode
connection.
Avoid areas where fluids may collect.
Use split neutral electrodes with a sufficiently large surface area
(patient age and max. output power during operation have to be
considered).
Before applying the neutral electrode
Shave the area where the neutral electrode will be applied.
Clean the application site, but do not use any alcohol, since it dries out the skin
and increases the contact resistance.
If the patient has poor circulation, massage or brush the application site.
