Abstract: A hand-controllable switch for remote control of an electrosurgical instrument is comprised of an elongated hollow body composed of an electrically insulative material with an electrical conductor tube positioned therein, a blade member inserted lengthwise through a bore in connected relation to the conductor tube, and electrical leads terminating in longitudinally spaced relation to one another so that in contacting the conductor tube they are operative to establish distinct electrical power levels. The body is composed of a resilient material in which is resiliently mounted one or more annular switch members which are depressible under hand or finger pressure at any point on their circumferences to effect closure with the electrical conductor tube.

Abstract: A dispersive electrode has been devised for electromedical equipment consisting of a thin sheet or layer of electrically conductive material covered on one or both sides by a flexible laminate. To facilitate attachment to the skin of a patient during electrosurgery, the laminated sheet may be secured to a resilient backing member preferably having bifurcated ends to which an adhesive is applied in order to effect a secure connection to various parts of the body and to more readily conform to the contour of different parts of the body. The pad includes a tab projecting from one end of the conductive layer which tab is preferably of rounded or somewhat circular configuration and adapted to be inserted into a snap-type connector.

Abstract: A generally flat instrument provides electrical interfacing between an electro-surgical signal generator and an exposed surgical electrode. Dome-shaped momentary contact switches are sealed within the instrument housing at points convenient for manual usage. Low profile switches which resist seal degradation are employed and the device is readily adaptable for accepting replaceable chucks containing a preselected surgical electrode. The relatively narrow elongated housing imparts the feel of a non-electrical surgical instrument. Inclusion of one or more nubs or other raised portions on the switch domes facilitates identification of switch function without requiring direct observation by the user.

Abstract: A switching circuit is completed between electrical contacts by a flexible cap overlying the contact points. The cap is formed with cylindrical sidewalls and an upper end closure which has a plunger or piston-like portion extending therefrom towards the contact points. The dome section is arranged so as to arc from the cylindrical sidewalls in a direction away from the contact points so that depression of the dome will not effect collapsing of the cylindrical sidewalls for the entire extent of the contact establishing travel. The cap can deflect a metal dome to perform the contact establishment or can be composed of a resilient conductive material to directly establish electrical contact.

Abstract: A generally flat insulator chuck is arranged to retain surgical electrodes so that the working area of the electrodes extends externally on one end and an electrical circuit accomodating prong is contained within a recessed chamber at the other end. The recessed chamber is dimensioned so as to effect continuous contouring relative to a receiving control handle apparatus in such a manner that the physical stress is translated between the insulator sidewalls of the chuck and the insulator of an extended plug on the handle. The electrical connection extension prong within the recess slidingly engages an electrical connector embedded within the handle extension so as to provide electrical contact free of physical stress from usage. Locking and guiding arrangements cooperate between the handle and the chuck to further insure firm attachment.