In Case 1, what mode was responsible for the burns suffered by the cardiac patient?

The correct answer is monopolar mode, as it is commonly linked to thermal injuries in surgical settings due to the way it operates. Monopolar electrosurgery involves the use of a single active electrode that delivers electrical energy to the tissue. This can generate significant heat at the site of application, which can lead to burns if the electrode is left in one spot too long or if it is misapplied.

In monopolar setups, the current passes through the patient's body to a grounding pad that serves as the return electrode. If the grounding pad is improperly placed or its contact with the skin is insufficient, it can lead to unintended burns at the site of the active electrode or at the return pathway.

Understanding the potential for burns in this mode is crucial for patient safety during surgical procedures. Monopolar mode is primarily used for cutting and coagulating tissue, requiring careful management and operator training to mitigate the risks of thermal injury. This high level of energy concentration makes it more likely to cause burns compared to other modes, like bipolar, which operates differently and generally has a lower risk of such complications.