Understanding the Relationship between
Surgical Gloves and Electrosurgery

GLOSSARY OF TERMS Current: Refers to the flow of electric charge. The most familiar artificial form of electric current is the flow of conduction electrons in metal wires; i.e., wires within electrical equipment. Electrical current can be alternating current (AC), which means that the direction of electrons alternate or switch, or direct current (DC), in which the flow of electrical current (electrons) is in one direction only. Capacitive Coupling: The condition that occurs when alternating (AC) electrical current is transferred from one conductor (an electrode), across intact insulation, into adjacent conductive materials (tissue or skin) or another metal surgical instrument. Capacitance is stored electrical charge. Dielectric Breakdown: Breakdown of a nonconductive material (e.g., a rubber glove), which may be caused by highvoltage output from the electrical generator. Electrosurgery: The passage of Radio Frequency (RF) or high-frequency electrical current through tissue to create a desired clinical effect on the tissue. RF current is measured in cycles per second. Resistance/Impedance: The lack of conductivity or the opposition to the flow of electrical current. The terms are used interchangeably. Resistance/impedance is measured in ohms.

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