Abstract: A bipolar biopsy device comprising two biopsy tissue collecting receptacles wherein at least one biopsy tissue collecting receptacle is pivotable in relation to the other and wherein each biopsy tissue collecting receptacle supports an electrode portion thereon to which current can flow and a cutting edge that is electrically insulated from the electrode portion. The electrode portion coagulates the tissue surrounding the cutting portion. The cut tissue sample is retained within the receptacles so that it maybe removed for biopsy purposes. Preferably, each biopsy receptacle is individually pivotable in relation to the other and the device is dimensioned to have utility in endoscopic or similar procedures.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical scissors for use in open or endoscopic surgery has a pair of opposed metal blade members pivotally joined to one another and to the distal end of the scissors itself by a rivet. Each of the blade members comprises a cutting blade having an electrode on the non-shearing surface. An intermediate insulative coating is disposed between each cutting blade and its associated electrode coating. The cutting blade is preferably fabricated from metal such as stainless steel and the electrode coating comprises metal traces deposited thereon through a mask to yield a desired pattern extending along but separated from the blade's cutting edge. Cutting is performed, steel-on-steel, without causing a short circuit between the blades which themselves may function as one of the bipolar electrodes.