Hyfrecator

It works by emitting low-power high-frequency high-voltage AC electrical pulses, via an electrode mounted on a handpiece, directly to the affected area of the body.

The amount of output power is adjustable, and the device is equipped with different tips, electrodes and forceps, depending on the electrosurgical requirement.

However, the word "hyfrecator" is sometimes used as a genericized trademark to refer to any dedicated non-ground-return electrosurgical apparatus, and a number of manufacturers now produce such machines, although not by this name.

In the latter mode, the patient must sit or lie on an insulated table, much as in the case with objects to be charged electrostatically with high-voltage D.C. (as from a Van de Graaff generator, for example).

For this reason, hyfrecation and all non-ground-pad electrosurgery is performed only on conscious patients, who would be aware of the burn and discomfort from an unwanted earth-ground path.