Electrosurgery. Technical note.

In this paper the author reviews the development of electrosurgery in neurosurgical procedures. Particular stress is placed on bipolar coagulation and the more recent addition of bipolar cutting. Basic electric principles are discussed as well as the electrophysiological basis of coagulating and cutting currents. Neurosurgical techniques and instrumentation criteria are presented. The material is planned to provide the neurosurgeon with greater understanding of the function of the equipment and, perhaps, to improve usage.