A magnetic switching device includes an electromagnet adapted to be arranged proximate to an exterior surface of an object having a magnetically-switchable device therein and a control circuit electrically connected to the electromagnet. The electromagnet is constructed to generate a magnetic field of sufficient strength and orientation to engage a switch in the magnetically-switchable device. The invention further includes an electrocautery system, including an electrocautery device, a control circuit electrically connected to the electrocautery device, and an electromagnet electrically connected to the control circuit. The electromagnet is adapted to be arranged proximate to an exterior surface of an object having a magnetically-switchable device therein. Operation of the electrocautery device causes the electromagnet to generate a magnetic field of sufficient strength to engage a switch in the magnetically-switchable device.
