Abstract: A bipolar surgical instrument for fusing tissue includes first and second grasping members each having an end effector assembly attached at a distal end thereof. Each end effector assembly including a first jaw member with an active electrode disposed thereon and a second jaw member with a dielectric member disposed thereon. The first and second jaw members of each end effector are disposed in substantial opposing relation relative to one another and are movable from a first spaced position relative to one another to a second closer position for grasping tissue. Each active electrode is operably connected to an electrosurgical energy source. A surgical crimping tool is included and is selectively positionable to mechanically engage and crimp the active electrodes of the grasping members in a juxtaposed, side-by-side manner relative to one another prior to electrosurgical activation to fuse tissue into a unified tissue mass.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an electrosurgical instrument includes the steps of: providing an electrosurgical instrument having at least one conductor, applying a lipid coating onto at least a portion of at least one conductor on an electrosurgical instrument, and curing the lipid coating. An electrosurgical instrument manufactured by the method disclosed herein is also provided.