Valleylab REM Polyhesive Patient Return Electrodes ( Adult )

This product is a single-use, corded patient return electrode designed for adult patients undergoing procedures that utilize electrosurgical energy. It functions as a critical component in the electrosurgical circuit, providing a safe pathway for the return of electrical current from the patient back to the electrosurgical generator. The electrode is constructed with a high-moisture, conductive adhesive hydrogel known as PolyHesive II.

This hydrogel is water-based and formulated to reduce skin resistance, thereby enhancing electrical conductivity. Its unique elongation properties allow it to conform to the natural contours and irregularities of the patient's skin, effectively minimizing air gaps and maximizing the total surface area for electrical conduction. This comprehensive contact is essential for efficient current dispersion and for preventing localized heat buildup, which is a key safety consideration during electrosurgery.

The electrode features an acrylic adhesive that further ensures good pad contact quality and acts as a moisture barrier, reducing the risk of fluid ingress. The backing material is a closed-cell foam that offers flexibility, allowing it to adapt to various patient body shapes without tearing, thus maintaining its integrity throughout the procedure. The integrated cord measures 9 inches in length, providing adequate reach for typical clinical setups.

The electrode weighs 13.6 grams and has a total length of 2.3 meters, including the cord.

This patient return electrode is intended for use by trained medical professionals, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room nursing staff, in a variety of surgical settings. Typical applications include all procedures where electrosurgery is employed, such as general surgery, laparoscopic procedures, orthopedic surgery, and dermatological procedures requiring tissue cutting or coagulation. The electrode is designed for use with electrosurgical generators equipped with a REM (Return Electrode Monitoring) Contact Quality Monitoring System.

This system continuously monitors the impedance at the patient return electrode site. In the event of a detected fault, such as significant impedance increase or loss of contact, the REM system automatically deactivates the electrosurgical generator, thereby enhancing patient safety by preventing potential burns or other complications associated with inadequate current return. It is important to follow standard protocols for skin preparation and electrode placement to ensure optimal performance and safety.

The electrode is designed to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing to the skin.