How can an electrosurgical unit become a fire hazard in the

Solution

Electrosurgery uses alternating current. Modern day electrosurgery is the utilization of alternating current at radiofrequency levels. During electrocautery, current does not enter the patient\'s body. Only the heated wire comes in contact with tissue. In electrosurgery, the patient is included in the circuit and current enters the patient\'s body.

So, in case the electrodes touch some conducting object, there can be a risk of short circuiting and there can be large amounts of current flowing through the circuit. Due to Joule\'s heating, this might ultimately lead to have fires in the OR.

I hope this helps.