Yoo J H, White T J, Stoner D L
Int J Biomed Comput. 1977 Apr;8(2):109-30. doi: 10.1016/0020-7101(77)90014-9.
A preliminary model was prepared for the development of superficial burns which can result from the interaction of faulty defibrillator and other electrical operating room equipment. A thermal model previously used to predict retinal coagulation was adapted to give temperature rise history of the skin. Skin resistance is assumed to decrease rapidly due to the instability of a small volume near the surface. Heating due to dissipation of the defibrillator capacitor energy in this skin volume is shown to be high enough to cause burns. A sensitivity analysis is included to isolate the dominant input parameters. Recommendations are made for future research.
