Name two absolute contraindications to the use of diathermy.

• A. History of seizures; metal implants in the treatment area.
• B. Implanted electronic devices in the treatment area; pregnancy in the pelvic region.
• C. Active infection and open wounds.
• D. Diabetes and hypertension.

Answer: (B)

Diathermy delivers high-frequency energy to heat deep tissues, so safety hinges on avoiding conditions where the energy can cause dangerous heating or interfere with other devices. Implanted electronic devices in the treatment area are an absolute contraindication because the electromagnetic fields can disrupt device function or heat the device itself, posing serious risks. Pregnancy in the pelvic region is also an absolute contraindication since heating there could affect the fetus. Other scenarios listed—such as a history of seizures, metal implants, active infection or open wounds, and systemic conditions like diabetes or hypertension—may require caution or be contraindications for other modalities, but they do not carry the same universal, non-negotiable risk as implanted devices in the treatment zone or pregnancy.