Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument comprising a handle, an end effector and an elongated hollow tube. The handle includes first and second grip members. The end effector includes first, second and third electrodes. The first electrode is substantially triangular in shape. The first electrode is adapted to pivot between an open position and a closed position. The first electrode also pivots around its proximal to distal axis and includes a coagulating surface and a cutting edge. The second and third electrodes are arranged substantially parallel to the first electrode when the first electrode is in the closed position. The elongated hollow tube includes a mechanism connecting the handle to the end effector such that movement of the first and second grip members relative to one another causes the first electrode to move relative to the second and third electrodes.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument having a handle, an end effector and an elongated hollow tube. The handle includes first and second grip members. The end effector includes first, second and third electrodes. The first electrode is substantially triangular in shape. The first electrode is adapted to pivot between an open position and a closed position. The first electrode also pivots around its proximal to distal axis and includes a coagulating surface and a cutting edge. The second and third electrodes are arranged substantially parallel to the first electrode when the first electrode is in the closed position. The elongated hollow tube includes a mechanism connecting the handle to the end effector such that movement of the first and second grip members relative to one another causes the first electrode to move relative to the second and third electrodes.

Abstract: A current leakage control circuit regulates the output power of an electrosurgical generator to limit the amount of leakage current. The leakage current is monitored with a differential transformer which has the output and return leads of the electrosurgical generator as first and second windings. A third or sense winding produces a control signal whenever the currents in the output and return leads are not equal, thus indicating current leakage. The control signal is compared to a predetermined maximum safe level of leakage current. If this predetermined level is exceeded, a power control feedback loop of the electrosurgical generator reduces the output power to a sufficiently lower level to reduce the leakage current within a maximum acceptable limit.