What is essential to prevent burns during unipolar RF ablation?

To prevent burns during unipolar radiofrequency (RF) ablation, ensuring good skin contact and a larger surface area is crucial. This approach helps distribute the energy more evenly across the tissue, minimizing the risk of overheating that can lead to burns. When there is good contact, the impedance at the electrode-tissue interface is reduced, allowing for better energy transfer and more controlled heating of the target tissue.

A larger surface area for the electrode also reduces peak temperatures in any one location because the RF energy is spread out over a wider region, decreasing the chances of localized tissue damage. This principle is fundamental in RF ablation techniques, where precision and safety while applying thermal energy to tissues are paramount in achieving effective outcomes while minimizing adverse effects.