Question

What surgical functions are performed by the diathermy machine?

(a) cutting, coagulation, fulguration

(b) cutting, fulguration

(c) cutting, coagulation

(d) coagulation, fulguration

I had been asked this question in an interview.

The doubt is from Diathermy, Measurement of Radiation, Dose and its Calculations in portion Radiation Therapy of Clinical Science

Answer 1

Correct option is (a) cutting, coagulation, fulguration

For explanation I would say: Cutting happens when the heat is given is so high that the cell burns and is separated. This causes the incision to be formed, hence cutting. Coagulation happens when the cytoplasm is heated so much that it boils and joins together. Fulguration is a process in which the heat is applied and a spread out action takes place. It covers a larger area.