What is a Cautery Machine?
A cautery machine is a medical device used in hospitals and operation theaters (OT) for cutting, coagulating, or sealing tissues during surgery. It works using heat or electric current to stop bleeding and reduce the risk of infection.
In simple words: A cautery machine helps doctors perform safe surgeries by controlling bleeding and sealing tissues.
Table of Contents
What is Cautery and Why is it Used?
Cautery means using heat or electricity to burn, seal, or cut body tissues. It is commonly used in:
- Surgery to control bleeding
- Skin treatments like removing warts or moles
- ENT procedures to stop nosebleeds
- Gynecology for cervical treatments
Other Names of Cautery Machine
- Electrocautery Machine
- Diathermy Machine
- Surgical Cautery Machine
How Does a Cautery Machine Work?
The working of a cautery machine is based on electric current.
- Current passes through a cautery pencil (handpiece).
- The tip of the pencil generates heat.
- The heated tip is applied to the tissue → this either cuts or coagulates (stops bleeding).
It works at different power levels like 100W, 200W, 300W, and 400W depending on the surgery.
Parts of a Cautery Machine
A typical cautery machine has:
- Power Unit (Generator): Controls energy output.
- Cautery Pencil: Used by the surgeon to cut or coagulate.
- Foot Switch: Hands-free operation.
- Electrode Pads: Attached to the patient for current flow.
- Cables & Accessories.
Types of Cautery Machines
There are mainly two types:
1. Electrocautery
- Uses direct heat from an electrically heated probe.
- Common in dermatology and minor surgeries.
2. Electrosurgical Cautery (Diathermy)
- Uses high-frequency current to cut and coagulate tissue.
- Widely used in major surgeries.
Subtypes in Electrosurgical Cautery:
- Monopolar: One active electrode, used for large areas.
- Bipolar: Current passes between two tips, safer for delicate surgeries (like brain or ENT).
Indications for Using a Cautery Machine
Doctors use cautery machines in many conditions, including:
- General Surgery → cutting tissues, sealing blood vessels
- ENT → stopping nosebleeds, tonsil removal
- Gynecology → cervical cauterization
- Dermatology → removing skin tags, warts, moles
- Dental Surgery → gum treatment
- Plastic Surgery → cosmetic corrections
Cautery Machine in OT (Operation Theater)
In the operation theater, the cautery machine is as important as a suction machine. It helps in:
- Reducing blood loss
- Faster healing
- Clear surgical field
- Reducing infection risk
Procedure
- Patient is prepped for surgery.
- Electrodes are attached to the body.
- Surgeon selects the mode (cut/coagulate) and power setting.
- Cautery pencil is used to perform the surgery.
- The machine ensures controlled bleeding and clean cuts.
Advantages of Cautery Machines
- Less blood loss
- Faster surgery time
- Reduced risk of infection
- Precision cutting
- Safe for most surgeries
Disadvantages / Risks
- Burns if not used properly
- Smoke production during surgery
- Cannot be used in patients with pacemakers (risk of interference)
Price & Best Cost
The price of cautery machines depends on brand, wattage, and features.
| Type / Wattage | Price in India (INR) | Price in USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Electrocautery (100–200W) | ₹20,000 – ₹50,000 | $500 – $1,000 |
| Standard OT Machine (300–400W) | ₹60,000 – ₹1,50,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Advanced Bipolar System | ₹2,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 | $3,000 – $7,000 |
Example: A 400-watt cautery machine in India costs around ₹1.2 – 1.5 lakh.
Suction Machine vs Cautery Machine
| Feature | Suction Machine | Cautery Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Removes blood & fluids | Cuts & coagulates tissues |
| Use in OT | Clears surgical field | Prevents bleeding |
| Cost | ₹15,000 – ₹50,000 | ₹20,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
Cautery Machine PPT & PDF
For medical students, PPTs and PDFs on cautery machines are widely available online. These educational resources explain:
- Principles of cautery
- Types of cautery
- Applications in surgery
- Safety measures
FAQs About Cautery Machine
1. What is a cautery machine used for?
It is used to cut, coagulate, and seal tissues during surgery to prevent bleeding.
2. What is cautery and why is it used?
Cautery is the use of heat or electricity to stop bleeding, remove abnormal growths, or cut tissues.
3. What is another name for a cautery machine?
It is also called an electrocautery machine or diathermy machine.
4. How many types of cautery are there?
Mainly two types → Electrocautery and Electrosurgical Cautery (Monopolar & Bipolar).
5. What is the price of a cautery machine in India?
Prices range from ₹20,000 to ₹5 lakh depending on wattage and type.
6. Is cautery safe?
Yes, when used by trained doctors, it is safe. Minor risks include burns and smoke inhalation.
Conclusion
The cautery machine is one of the most important tools in modern surgery. From general operations to dermatology and gynecology, it plays a vital role in ensuring safe, bloodless, and precise surgical procedures.
