Abstract: A body electrode for use as the indifferent, return electrode in electrosurgical and the like procedures includes a layer of fibrous webbing contacting a conductive metal plate of the electrode on one side and the patent's body on the other side. The layer of webbing is adapted to be wetted with aqueous conductive fluid medium applied thereto immediately prior to application of the electrode to the body. The webbing is of non-absorbent thermoplastic fibres, e.g. polyester, which will restrain the flow of but not substantially absorb the conductive fluid. The webbing layer is of 1/50 - 1/8 inch thickness and comprises non-absorbent fibres interwoven together in an interlocking manner.