Bipolar and Monopolar Electrosurgery
Installation teams in Lagos, Abuja, PH & Kano
Certified biomedical engineers & calibration
Pricing, lead-times & compliance in 24 hours
An Electrosurgical Unit (ESU), often called a diathermy machine, is a medical device used by surgeons in operating theatres to cut tissue and control bleeding by causing coagulation. It uses a high-frequency electrical current to heat tissue, allowing for precise incisions with minimal blood loss, which significantly shortens surgery duration and improves patient recovery times. It is a standard piece of equipment in virtually every surgical setting, from minor procedures in clinics to complex surgeries in tertiary hospitals.
New, entry-level monopolar Electrosurgical Units start from NGN 1.5 million to NGN 4 million, mid-range units with bipolar capabilities range from NGN 4 million to NGN 9 million, and advanced systems with vessel sealing technology can cost between NGN 9 million and NGN 20+ million. Refurbished units from reputable brands typically cost 40-60% less than their new counterparts.
The final quoted price is driven by several factors beyond the unit itself. Key cost drivers include the maximum power output (in watts), the number and type of surgical modes (e.g., pure cut, blend, spray coag, bipolar), and whether it includes advanced features like vessel sealing or argon gas enhancement. The brand reputation (e.g., Valleylab, ConMed, Erbe) significantly impacts price, as do included accessories like footswitches, patient return pads, and various electrodes. Always account for the "landed cost," which includes international freight, customs duties, local logistics, installation by a certified engineer, and mandatory user training. The fluctuating USD/NGN exchange rate is a major variable that can alter costs by 10-20% between the quotation and payment dates.
When you request a quote, ensure it is itemised. It must clearly state the price of the main unit, each accessory, warranty terms, installation fees, and training costs. Vague, all-in-one prices hide costs and make it impossible to compare offers fairly. Insist on clear payment terms and documentation deliverables, such as a calibration certificate upon installation.
For a detailed, itemised quote tailored to your facility's needs, contact Franance.
The cheapest, safe Electrosurgical Units in Nigeria are typically professionally refurbished monopolar/bipolar units from reputable brands, which start from NGN 800,000 to NGN 1.8 million. These are basic models suitable for general surgery, offering essential cut and coagulation modes with a power output of around 120-200 watts. New, entry-level units from lesser-known but reliable brands start at approximately NGN 1.5 million.
Be extremely cautious with the lowest-priced offers. These often come with significant hidden costs and risks. The warranty may be limited to 30-90 days and may not cover parts. The price frequently excludes critical accessories like footswitches or a variety of electrodes, forcing you to make expensive secondary purchases. Most importantly, cheap quotes rarely include installation by a certified biomedical engineer, calibration with a traceable certificate, or the essential UPS/stabilizer needed to protect the unit from Nigeria's erratic power supply. What seems cheap upfront can quickly become expensive and unsafe.
To get a quote for a reliable, low-cost ESU with no hidden surprises, contact Franance.
An affordable Electrosurgical Unit is a value bundle that costs between NGN 2.5 million and NGN 5 million, including the ESU, a suitable trolley, a 2-3kVA pure sine wave UPS, a complete set of starter accessories (e.g., 5 reusable pencils, 2 bipolar forceps, 20 patient plates), professional installation, calibration, and on-site training for your surgical and biomedical teams.
Focusing on the cheapest unit price is a mistake; affordability is about minimising the total cost over the first 12-24 months. A unit bought without a proper UPS is likely to suffer a power-related fault within its first year, leading to repair costs of NGN 300,000 - NGN 800,000 and weeks of downtime. An uncalibrated unit poses a significant patient safety risk and can lead to poor surgical outcomes. Bundling everything from a single, accountable supplier like Franance ensures compatibility, reduces logistical headaches, and provides a single point of contact for all service needs, ultimately lowering your operational risk and long-term costs.
Contact Franance to configure an affordable, all-inclusive ESU package for your facility.
A new, mid-range Electrosurgical Unit from a top brand costs between NGN 4 million and NGN 9 million, while a professionally refurbished unit of the same model or capability costs between NGN 1.5 million and NGN 4 million. This represents a typical saving of 40-60% for refurbished equipment.
The choice depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and specific needs. New units come with the latest software, a full manufacturer's warranty (typically 1-2 years), and longer expected lifecycles. However, lead times can be long (8-16 weeks) due to manufacturing and shipping. Refurbished units from a trusted vendor offer incredible value. They are fully disassembled, tested, and rebuilt with new components where necessary, then calibrated to OEM standards. They come with a shorter warranty (usually 6-12 months) but are often available immediately from local stock. For most general surgical applications, a high-quality refurbished unit from a brand like Valleylab offers the performance of a new machine at a fraction of the cost.
| Feature | New ESU | Refurbished ESU |
|---|---|---|
| Price | NGN 4M - 9M (Mid-range) | NGN 1.5M - 4M (Mid-range) |
| Warranty | 1-2 years (Manufacturer) | 6-12 months (Vendor) |
| Lead Time | 8-16 weeks | 1-3 weeks (if in-country) |
| Software | Latest version | Original stable version |
| Lifecycle | 7-10 years | 4-7 years remaining |
| Best For | Tertiary hospitals, specialised surgery, long-term capital plans | Private clinics, secondary hospitals, budget-conscious buyers |
To explore both new and professionally refurbished ESU options, contact Franance.
Contact Franance today for a comprehensive, itemised quote on new and refurbished Electrosurgical Units, complete with installation, training, and warranty.
You can buy Electrosurgical Units from specialised medical equipment suppliers located primarily in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. The most reliable method is to work through a verified procurement partner like Franance, who vets suppliers, or to engage directly with suppliers who can prove they are authorised distributors for specific OEM brands (e.g., Medtronic, ConMed).
Never purchase critical medical equipment from general suppliers or open-market traders in places like Alaba or Balogun Market. The risk of acquiring a counterfeit, damaged, or non-functional unit is extremely high. A credible supplier must be a registered business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and have a team of certified biomedical engineers. Before committing, you must verify their track record. Ask for references from other hospitals they have supplied. A serious supplier will provide proof of OEM authorisation, evidence of liability insurance, and have a clear, documented process for installation, training, and after-sales support. Franance's procurement workflow includes all these checks, ensuring you only deal with qualified and reliable vendors who can support the equipment throughout its lifecycle.
Let Franance connect you with pre-vetted, reliable ESU suppliers across Nigeria.
Franance is a verified, full-service procurement and maintenance partner for Electrosurgical Units in Nigeria, offering nationwide coverage from our operational hubs. We provide a complete, end-to-end solution, from sourcing and financing to installation and lifecycle support, ensuring your facility acquires the right equipment with guaranteed performance and uptime.
The best Electrosurgical Units are those that match your facility's surgical needs and budget. For top-tier, complex procedures, the Erbe VIO 3 or Medtronic Valleylab FT10 are industry leaders, costing NGN 12 million to NGN 20+ million. For most general and specialised surgeries in private or teaching hospitals, the Valleylab Force FX or ConMed System 5000 offer an excellent balance of performance and value, priced between NGN 5 million and NGN 9 million. For smaller clinics and day surgery centres, a reliable workhorse like the Bovie Bantam PRO (A952) or a refurbished Valleylab Force 2 provides essential functions safely and affordably, ranging from NGN 1.5 million to NGN 4 million.
Entry-Tier (Clinics, Primary Care): The focus here is on safety, reliability, and basic monopolar/bipolar functions. A unit with 120-200W output and a reliable Contact Quality Monitoring (CQM) system to prevent patient burns is essential. Mid-Tier (General Hospitals, Private Specialists): These facilities need versatility. Look for units with 300W output, multiple blend modes for different tissue effects, and simultaneous monopolar and bipolar capabilities. Models like the Valleylab Force FX are renowned for their durability in high-caseload environments. Advanced-Tier (Teaching Hospitals, Specialised Surgical Centres): The key spec is advanced energy delivery. This includes integrated vessel sealing (like Medtronic's LigaSure technology) and specialised modes for procedures like TURP or laparoscopy. These units reduce surgery time and improve outcomes in complex cases.
Comparing Electrosurgical Unit models requires looking beyond price to match features with your surgical caseload. Entry-level models are perfect for clinics doing minor procedures, mid-range units are the workhorses for general hospitals, and advanced systems are essential for specialised surgical centres needing features like vessel sealing.
| Tier | Best for | Key Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | Private Clinics, Day Surgery | 120-200W, Monopolar/Bipolar, Basic Cut/Coag modes | 2-4 weeks | Annual PPM & Calibration | 2kVA UPS |
| Mid | General Hospitals, Private Hospitals | 300W, Multiple Blend modes, Simultaneous activation, CQM | 6-10 weeks | Annual PPM & Calibration | 3kVA UPS |
| Advanced | Teaching Hospitals, Specialised Centres | 300-400W, Vessel Sealing, Argon-enhanced modes, Touchscreen | 8-16 weeks | Bi-annual PPM, OEM Service | 3-5kVA UPS |
The best and most trusted Electrosurgical Unit brands in Nigeria are Medtronic (Valleylab), ConMed, and Bovie. These brands are highly recommended because of their proven reliability in the demanding Nigerian environment, excellent clinical performance, and, most importantly, the established availability of service, training, and spare parts within the country.
Medtronic's Valleylab series, particularly the Force FX and FT10 models, is considered the gold standard by many surgeons for its consistency and advanced features like LigaSure vessel sealing. ConMed units, such as the System 5000, are known for being robust, versatile workhorses suitable for a wide range of procedures. Bovie, now part of Symmetry Surgical, offers excellent, cost-effective, and reliable units like the Bantam PRO (A952), which are perfect for clinics and smaller hospitals. While premium European brands like Erbe offer top-of-the-line technology, you must rigorously verify the local supplier's capacity for support and parts before investing.
Electrosurgical Unit prices in Nigeria are provided in ranges due to fluctuating exchange rates, shipping costs, and custom configurations. Here is a typical price list:
When you receive a range-based quote, it's crucial to understand the variables. The lower end of the range usually represents the base unit without shipping, customs clearance, or a protective UPS. The higher end is a more realistic "landed cost" that includes these essentials plus installation and training. For example, a unit quoted at "NGN 4M - 5.5M" likely means the base unit is NGN 4M, but the final cost delivered and installed at your facility in Kano, with a UPS and training, will be closer to NGN 5.5M. Always clarify what is included. Seasonal factors, like increased shipping rates during peak seasons, and sudden changes in CBN foreign exchange policies can also push the final price towards the higher end of the range.
The five most decisive specifications that impact clinical outcomes and ownership cost are Maximum Power Output, Surgical Modes, Bipolar Capability, Patient Safety Monitoring, and Vessel Sealing Technology.
The installation and calibration process for an Electrosurgical Unit in Nigeria typically takes 1-2 days and should cost between NGN 150,000 and NGN 400,000 if not included in a purchase bundle. The process must be handled by a biomedical engineer certified on the specific brand and model.
A turnkey installation follows a clear process. First is a site readiness check to ensure the operating theatre has a stable, dedicated power outlet with proper earthing. Next, the engineer unboxes, assembles the unit and trolley, and connects it to a pre-specified UPS. The most critical step is calibration: the engineer uses a calibrated ESU analyser to verify that the power output on the screen matches the actual delivered power across all modes. This is essential for patient safety. After successful calibration, the engineer conducts mandatory training for surgeons, nurses, and your hospital's biomedical staff on proper use, cleaning, and basic troubleshooting. You will receive a signed installation report and a traceable calibration certificate as proof of proper setup.
For a guaranteed, OEM-compliant installation and calibration of your Electrosurgical Unit anywhere in Nigeria, contact Franance.
Delivery of an Electrosurgical Unit in Nigeria takes 1-3 weeks for in-stock items and 6-12 weeks for new factory orders via air freight. The process involves international shipping, Nigerian customs clearance, and secure inland transportation to your facility. Costs can range from NGN 300,000 to over NGN 1 million, depending on the unit's weight, value, and shipping method (air vs. sea).
The logistics process is complex and requires expertise. The supplier must first secure foreign exchange and process a Form M through the Trade Portal. Upon shipment, they must obtain a Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) to initiate customs clearance at the port (Apapa, Tin Can) or airport (Lagos, Abuja). This involves paying import duties and other levies. Once cleared, the unit must be transported securely, with insurance, to your hospital. Delays are common, so it's vital to work with a supplier who has a dedicated logistics team and a strong relationship with clearing agents to minimise port storage (demurrage) costs.
Standard warranty for a new Electrosurgical Unit in Nigeria is 12 months, while professionally refurbished units typically come with a 6-month warranty. This warranty should cover both parts and labour and be serviced by engineers based in Nigeria. The cost of a comprehensive post-warranty service contract (SLA) is typically 8-15% of the equipment's purchase price annually.
Do not accept a "manufacturer's warranty" that requires you to ship the unit abroad for repairs. A valuable warranty is one that is backed by a local supplier with a clear Service Level Agreement (SLA). This SLA should specify a maximum response time (e.g., 48 hours) for service calls and guarantee the availability of critical spare parts. Modern units may offer remote diagnostics, allowing engineers to troubleshoot issues over the internet, but on-site support is essential. A good service strategy includes at least one annual Preventive Maintenance (PPM) visit, where the engineer cleans, inspects, and recalibrates the unit to ensure it remains safe and accurate.
Professionally refurbished Electrosurgical Units in Nigeria cost between NGN 1 million and NGN 5 million, offering a 40-60% savings compared to new. These units are typically sourced from hospitals in the US or Europe, are fully reconditioned by certified engineers, and represent an excellent value proposition for many Nigerian facilities.
There are different grades of refurbishment. A "cosmetically refurbished" unit has only been cleaned and repainted. A "fully refurbished" or "reconditioned" unit has been completely disassembled, with critical components (like capacitors and power transistors) replaced, software updated, and the unit calibrated back to original manufacturer specifications. Always demand proof of the work done. A reputable seller will provide a detailed service report, a certificate of calibration, and a minimum 6-month warranty. Availability is often better than for new units, as many suppliers hold refurbished stock locally in Nigeria.
To verify an Electrosurgical Unit is original, you must check the serial number with the manufacturer, buy only from authorised distributors, and scrutinise the packaging and documentation. Fake or counterfeit medical devices are a serious risk in Nigeria, often leading to equipment failure and patient harm.
The most common red flags for a fake ESU are a price that is "too good to be true," the absence of a valid serial number on the unit's chassis, and poor quality packaging or user manuals with spelling errors. An original unit will have a professional metal or plastic nameplate with the manufacturer's name, model number, serial number, and electrical specifications clearly engraved or printed. You can often email the serial number to the customer service department of the OEM (e.g., Medtronic, ConMed) to confirm its authenticity. Always buy from a supplier who can provide a letter of authorisation from the manufacturer.
Essential accessories for an ESU include the active electrode (or "pencil"), the patient return electrode (or "grounding pad"), and a footswitch. Consumables like disposable pencils and patient pads are a significant ongoing cost. A starter pack of accessories can cost between NGN 200,000 and NGN 800,000.
It is highly strategic to bundle a comprehensive set of accessories and a starter stock of consumables with the initial purchase of the ESU. This ensures you have everything you need to begin surgeries immediately and locks in a better price than buying them separately later. Ensure your purchase includes both monopolar and bipolar footswitches, a variety of active electrodes (blade, needle, ball), and at least two reusable bipolar forceps. For consumables, start with a box of 50 disposable patient return pads and 20 disposable pencils. Check for local availability of these consumables before committing to a specific brand.
An Electrosurgical Unit requires a stable 220-240V, 50Hz power supply and must be protected by a pure sine wave online UPS of at least 2-3kVA capacity. This is a non-negotiable requirement in Nigeria due to the unreliable and fluctuating public power grid.
The ESU is a sensitive electronic device. Power surges, sags, and outages from the grid or from an unstable generator can damage its internal circuit boards, leading to costly repairs and downtime. A standard office UPS is insufficient. You need an "online" or "double-conversion" UPS, which completely isolates the ESU from the input power. Furthermore, the operating theatre's electrical outlet must have a dedicated and verified earth connection. Improper earthing is a major safety hazard that can lead to electric shock for the patient or staff and interfere with the ESU's performance.
To be compliant in Nigeria, an Electrosurgical Unit must meet the standards set by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and, if imported, be registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The hospital is also responsible for ensuring the device is properly maintained and calibrated as part of its healthcare facility standards.
Your supplier is responsible for handling the importation compliance, which includes obtaining SONCAP certification before shipment and ensuring the device is listed on NAFDAC's medical device register. As the end-user, your responsibility is to maintain a compliance dossier for the equipment. This file should contain the purchase invoice, the installation report, the initial calibration certificate, and records of all subsequent annual calibrations and maintenance activities. This documentation is critical for hospital accreditation and provides a legal record of due diligence in ensuring patient safety.
Financing options for Electrosurgical Units in Nigeria include traditional bank loans, asset leasing from specialised finance companies, and tailored payment plans from procurement partners like Franance. Interest rates for bank loans and leases typically range from 25% to 35% per annum, with approval timelines of 4-8 weeks.
Bank loans require significant collateral and extensive documentation, making them a slow option. Leasing is faster and often requires less collateral as the ESU itself serves as security, but the total repayment amount can be higher. A more flexible option is working with a partner like Franance, who can structure a financing plan with a lower initial deposit (e.g., 30-50%) and spread the balance over 6-24 months. For NGOs, funding often comes from international grants, which have strict procurement and reporting requirements that a professional partner can help manage.
The 5-year Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for a mid-range Electrosurgical Unit in Nigeria is typically between NGN 8 million and NGN 15 million. This includes the initial purchase price, power protection, consumables, annual maintenance, and potential repairs. The initial purchase price often only accounts for 50-60% of the total lifetime cost.
Here is a sample 5-year TCO breakdown for a NGN 5 million mid-range ESU:
Managing TCO involves smart procurement (bundling accessories and a UPS), investing in an annual service contract to prevent costly breakdowns, and training staff to use the equipment and consumables efficiently.
Tertiary and teaching hospitals require advanced, high-wattage Electrosurgical Units capable of handling a wide range of complex and specialised surgeries. The recommended units are the Medtronic Valleylab FT10 or the Erbe VIO 3. These systems offer at least 300W of power, a comprehensive suite of monopolar and bipolar modes, and integrated vessel sealing technology (like LigaSure or BiClamp). These features are critical for procedures in cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery, and advanced laparoscopy, where precision and the ability to control major bleeding are paramount. The investment, ranging from NGN 12 million to NGN 20+ million, is justified by improved surgical outcomes, reduced theatre time, and the ability to perform a wider array of procedures.
Private clinics and smaller hospitals need a reliable, versatile, and cost-effective ESU. The best choice is a mid-range unit like the ConMed System 2450, the Bovie Bantam PRO (A952), or a professionally refurbished Valleylab Force FX. These units, priced between NGN 2 million and NGN 6 million, provide the essential monopolar and bipolar functionalities needed for general surgery, gynaecology, and dermatology. Key specifications are a power output of 120-200W, reliable safety features like patient return monitoring (CQM), and durability to handle a consistent caseload. The focus should be on a workhorse machine with good local service support and affordable consumables.
NGOs and mobile surgical outreach programs require Electrosurgical Units that are portable, durable, and able to withstand harsh operating environments with unstable power. The ideal choice is a compact, robust unit like the Bovie Bantam PRO (A952) or a similar portable model. These units are lightweight, have a smaller footprint, and are less sensitive to the rigours of transport. They must be paired with a high-quality, portable pure sine wave UPS and a rugged carrying case. Simplicity of use is key, as they may be operated by various teams. A price range of NGN 1.5 million to NGN 4 million for the unit is typical, with an additional investment in power protection and logistics.
For emergency departments, main operating theatres, and intensive care units, the primary requirements for an ESU are reliability, speed of setup, and versatility. A mid-range unit like the Valleylab Force FX or ConMed System 5000 is the standard. These units are known for their rapid start-up times and intuitive interfaces, which are crucial in trauma situations. They offer a full range of modes to handle everything from emergency laparotomies to bedside procedures in the ICU. The unit must be mounted on a stable trolley for mobility between theatres and be equipped with both hand-switching and foot-switching options to cater to surgeon preference. Reliability is non-negotiable, as downtime in these critical areas is not an option.
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An electrosurgical unit in Nigeria costs between NGN 1.5 million and NGN 8 million. A basic monopolar/bipolar unit like the Mindray Z-400 is in the NGN 1.5-2.5 million range, while an advanced vessel-sealing unit like the Medtronic Valleylab™ FT10 can exceed NGN 7 million. Always budget an extra 15% for essential accessories and installation.
You can buy electrosurgical units from certified medical equipment suppliers in Lagos like JNC International or DCL Laboratory Products. Before purchasing a specific model, such as a BOWA ARC 350, demand to see their official distributor certificate for Nigeria. This ensures you get genuine products, valid warranties, and qualified after-sales support.
Most modern ESUs require a stable 220-240V, 50Hz power supply. For a high-power unit like the ConMed System 7550, you must use a dedicated circuit with a high-quality UPS, like an APC Smart-UPS 3kVA. This protects against power fluctuations common in Abuja and prevents intraoperative failure or damage to sensitive electronics.
Buying a new ESU is better for warranty and reliability, while a refurbished unit offers significant cost savings. A new Mindray EX-350 comes with a full 2-year warranty and support. A refurbished Valleylab Force FX from a reputable vendor might cost 40-50% less but will have a limited 6-month warranty. Ensure any refurbished unit is certified and calibrated before purchase.
The best ESU brands for Nigerian hospitals are those with strong local support, like Medtronic (Valleylab), ConMed, BOWA, and Mindray. Medtronic's Valleylab FT10 is a top-tier choice for complex surgeries due to its advanced LigaSure™ technology. For general surgery and affordability, the Mindray Z-400 offers excellent performance and is widely supported by technicians in Nigeria.
You can get financing for an ESU through asset financing companies or specialized healthcare lenders like Franance. They can structure a lease-to-own plan over 12-36 months. For a NGN 5 million unit like the BOWA ARC 250, you might need a 20% down payment. This allows you to acquire the equipment immediately while managing your hospital's cash flow.
The installation process for a new ESU takes 1-2 days. After delivery, the supplier's biomedical engineer will unbox, perform a power-on self-test (POST), and verify all accessories. For a unit like the Erbe VIO 3, they will conduct output power calibration and safety checks. The process concludes with a 2-4 hour training session for your surgical and nursing staff on proper use and safety protocols.
An electrosurgical unit should be calibrated at least once a year or after any major repair. A performance verification check should be done every 6 months. For a workhorse unit like the Valleylab Force FX in a busy theatre in Kano, this is critical for patient safety. Use a qualified biomedical engineer with an electrosurgical analyzer to verify power output accuracy across all modes.
The main hidden costs are for consumables, accessories, and maintenance. Beyond the initial price of a unit like the BOWA ARC 100, you must budget for patient return electrodes (NGN 1,500-3,000 each), reusable pencils, and footswitches. Also, factor in the annual NGN 80,000-150,000 for a preventive maintenance contract to ensure longevity and safety.
Patient return electrode burns are caused by poor pad contact with the skin, creating high current density. To prevent this, ensure the patient's skin is clean and dry, and place the pad on a large, well-vascularized muscle mass. Modern ESUs like the Medtronic Valleylab FT10 feature Contact Quality Monitoring (CQM) systems that alarm and deactivate the unit if pad contact is compromised.
In monopolar electrosurgery, the current passes from the active electrode through the patient's body to a return pad. In bipolar, the current is confined between two tips on the instrument, like forceps. Bipolar, used in models like the BOWA ARC 250, is safer for delicate procedures as it limits energy spread, reducing the risk of collateral tissue damage.
Yes, your supplier needs NAFDAC registration to legally import and sell an ESU in Nigeria. When purchasing a unit, for example, a new ConMed System 2450, ask the vendor for their NAFDAC registration certificate for that specific model. This ensures the device has been vetted for safety and quality standards, protecting your facility from substandard equipment.
Choose a supplier in Abuja with a physical office, a team of biomedical engineers, and official distributorship for the brands they sell. Before buying a unit like the Mindray EX-350, ask for references from other hospitals in the FCT. A reliable supplier will offer installation, user training, and a minimum 12-month warranty with a clear service level agreement (SLA).
The most common issues are power failures, inactive electrode alarms, and patient pad alarms. If your Valleylab Force Triad alarms, first check the patient return electrode for proper placement and connection. For power issues, verify the wall socket and UPS functionality. An inactive electrode alarm often means the handpiece or footswitch is not securely plugged into the unit.
Vessel sealing technology uses a precise combination of pressure and radiofrequency energy to fuse the collagen and elastin in vessel walls, creating a permanent seal. This is a key feature in advanced units like the Medtronic LigaSure™ system, allowing surgeons to seal vessels up to 7mm in diameter with minimal thermal spread, reducing blood loss and procedure time.
Yes, you can lease an electrosurgical unit in Nigeria, which is a cost-effective way to access advanced technology without a large capital outlay. Companies like Franance offer leasing packages for equipment like the Erbe VIO 300 D. A typical lease runs for 24-48 months and includes maintenance, after which you may have the option to buy the unit at a reduced price.
Staff require hands-on training from the supplier's clinical application specialist, covering all operating modes, safety features, and alarm management. For a complex unit like the Valleylab FT10, this training should be mandatory for all surgeons, theatre nurses, and biomedical staff. It typically takes 3-4 hours and should include practical demonstrations and a Q&A session.
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) requires that all imported ESUs meet international safety standards like IEC 60601-2-2. Your supplier must provide a SONCAP certificate for the shipment. This confirms that the unit, for instance a BOWA ARC 350, has been inspected at the country of origin and complies with Nigerian industrial standards for electrical safety and performance.
An affordable, reliable ESU in Nigeria is priced between NGN 1.5 million and NGN 3 million. In this range, you can find quality basic units like the Mindray Z-400 or the BOWA ARC 100. These models provide essential monopolar and bipolar functions suitable for general surgery, making them excellent entry-level options for clinics and smaller hospitals.
Delivery and installation of a new ESU typically takes 2 to 8 weeks. If the unit, like a ConMed System 7550, is in stock with a local supplier in Lagos, it can be as fast as 2 weeks. If it needs to be imported, expect a 6-8 week timeline to account for shipping, customs clearance, and NAFDAC processing. Installation itself is usually completed within one day.
An ESU requires annual preventive maintenance and regular user checks. A biomedical engineer should perform an annual service, including power output calibration, safety testing, and internal cleaning. Users should daily inspect all cables, electrodes, and footswitches for damage before use. For a unit like the Valleylab Force FX, this routine prevents failures and ensures patient safety.
Argon-enhanced coagulation uses a jet of inert argon gas to deliver RF energy to tissue, resulting in rapid, non-contact coagulation with less tissue damage and smoke. It is essential for procedures with large surface bleeding, like liver surgery. Units like the ConMed Beamer CE200 Argon Beam Coagulation System offer this, but it is an advanced feature not required for general surgery.
Verify a supplier by requesting their Certificate of Incorporation, proof of OEM partnership, and a NAFDAC registration certificate for the specific ESU model. Ask for a list of hospitals where they have installed the same model, such as a Mindray EX-350 in Port Harcourt. A legitimate supplier will readily provide these documents and references.
You must buy a patient return electrode, a reusable or disposable electrosurgical pencil with an active electrode tip, and a footswitch. For bipolar functions, you will need bipolar forceps and a corresponding cable. When purchasing a unit like the BOWA ARC 250, ensure the initial quote includes at least one set of these essential accessories to make the unit operational.
The typical lifespan of a well-maintained electrosurgical unit is 7 to 10 years. A robust model like the Medtronic Valleylab Force FX can often last longer with proper annual servicing and timely replacement of parts like capacitors and relays. After 10 years, sourcing spare parts may become difficult, and upgrading to a newer model with enhanced safety features is recommended.
It is strongly discouraged to use accessories from different brands with your ESU, as it can cause malfunction and compromise patient safety. Connectors and impedance settings are often proprietary. Using a non-BOWA pencil with a BOWA ARC 350 unit, for example, may void the warranty and lead to incorrect power delivery. Always use OEM-approved accessories for your specific model.
The 'cut' mode uses a continuous, high-frequency waveform to vaporize tissue with minimal thermal damage, allowing for precise incisions. The 'coagulation' mode uses an intermittent, lower-voltage waveform to denature proteins and stop bleeding (hemostasis). Advanced units like the Erbe VIO 3 offer blended modes that combine both effects for simultaneous cutting and coagulation.
You must handle ESU disposal according to national environmental regulations for electronic waste (e-waste). Do not discard it with general hospital waste. Contact a certified medical equipment disposal company in Nigeria. They will safely dismantle the unit, like an old Valleylab SSE2L, and recycle components or dispose of hazardous materials like circuit boards responsibly.
Check the maximum power output (in watts) for cut and coag modes, the available waveforms (e.g., pure cut, blend, spray coag), and the type of patient return monitoring system (e.g., REM, CQM). For a versatile unit like the ConMed System 2450, look for at least 300W for monopolar cut and ensure it has independent bipolar controls for simultaneous use.
First, check that the patient return electrode has full, clean contact with the patient's skin, as poor contact is the most common cause. Next, inspect the active electrode tip for eschar buildup and clean it. If the issue persists on your Valleylab FT10, call a certified biomedical engineer. The problem could be a faulty cable or an internal power delivery component requiring professional service.