INTRODUCTION: Electrosurgery technology is known in a long time ago, and has gained increasing prominence. Nevertheless, it still presents many risks as to its use. Several lesions can be caused by electrocautery, and burns are the most frequent complications. There is not always patient's cooperation regarding preventive measures. METHOD: Review of relevant literature on the basis of legal questioning of a patient who refused to remove their ornaments at the beginning of surgery, being already in the operating room. CONCLUSION: It is essential to have the knowledge of the fundamentals of electrosurgery, its correct use, safety equipment, constant monitoring and immediate investigation to minimize the risk of accidents in patients with metal ornaments, and patient cooperation in obeying the preventive measures of accidents should be mandatory.
Electrosurgery; Electrocoagulation; Ethics, medical