Abstract: A surgical system that applies electrical energy to obtain predetermined surgical effects while improving the control of the application of the energy that is supplied by electrosurgical generators. In one embodiment, a surgical assembly interfaces with and receives power from an electrosurgical generator for executing a first electrosurgical procedure. This surgical assembly may employ a shunt circuit between its power and return lines for providing in effect a voltage limitation and/or to allow a constant power electrosurgical generator to execute an at least substantially constant voltage electrosurgical technique. The electrosurgical assembly may also include a return coupler for directing energy from the patient back to the electrosurgical generator, which in turn may include a dielectric material which interfaces with the patient and which at least initially conveys the return energy via one or more electric fields versus conduction.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument includes a body having at least one conductive element that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor edge portion of the conductive element. The profile of the electrosurgical instrument is configured to concentrate the flow of electrosurgical energy in a concentration region to facilitate starting or initiating the electrosurgical process. The profile of the electrosurgical instrument is further configured to prevent excessive delivery of electrosurgical energy to reduce or eliminate the production of smoke and eschar and reduce tissue damage.

Abstract: An electrosurgical blade for use in electrosurgery includes a body having at least one conductive element that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor edge portion of the conductive element. The profile of the electrosurgical blade is configured to concentrate the flow of electrosurgical energy in a concentration region to facilitate starting or initiating the electrosurgical process. The profile of the electrosurgical blade is further configured to prevent excessive delivery of electrosurgical energy to reduce or eliminate the production of smoke and eschar and reduce tissue damage.