Short Wave Diathermy Flashcards
What kind of current is used in SWD?
High frequency which is oscillating, alternating current of high frequency and low voltage.
How does SWD work?
High frequency makes tissues vibrate. Vibration causes friction. Friction causes energy to be released in the form of heat. Heat coagulates the tissues at base of follicle, sealing off the blood supply, prevents the formation of a new hair.
How does cauterisation work?
When a high intensity of high frequency is passed into the tissues causing the moisture to vaporise, leaving the tissues dry.
How does coagulation work?
Occurs when a lower intensity of high frequency is used , the tissues breakdown and the protein becomes congealed. Coagulation causes destruction at the base without damaging the surrounding tissue.
Benefits of SWD
Each hair treated quickly.
Many hairs are removed in one session.
Some clients prefer due to shorter duration of application.
Flash technique may be applied.
What is the heating pattern?
The shape of the the area heated around the needle. Will only develop if there is moisture.
How is the heating pattern affected by the duration the current is applied for?
Starts at the tip, moves up the shaft and also expands from the tip. Pear shaped heating pattern. If applied too long the heating pattern will reach skin surface - scarring. If too short treatment ineffective.
What type of heating pattern is produced by a thin needle?
Dense, so if the same intensity of current is used with a smaller needle size than normal the current will fell stronger.
What is the most effective needle diameter to use?
One equal to the diameter or the hair.
What is flash technique?
Application of a high frequency current at a very high intensity for a fraction of a second. The nerve endings don’t have time to respond to the pain. The heating pattern is very narrow. Tissue destruction through desiccation.
Why is double depression not recommended?
As the needle moves slightly, increases risk of piercing the hair walls.
