Capacitive Coupling

An electrical phenomenon whereby current passes through intact insulation. In the event that this type of energy reaches dangerous levels, the AEM monitor interrupts the power by shutting down the generator.

Capacitive coupling occurs when electrical current is induced from the active electrode to nearby conductive material through intact insulation.

In electrosurgery, the charge on the active electrode switches from positive to negative at a very high frequency. The rapidly varying electrical field around the active electrode can transfer high levels of electrical current to non-targeted tissue, causing severe burns.

The potential for capacitive coupling to occur is always present in monopolar electrosurgery.