Abstract: A system and method for performing an electrosurgical procedure are disclosed. The method includes obtaining information indicative of at least one physical characteristic of the patient and generating a reference voltage that is derived, at least in part, from the information. The reference voltage is coupled to a body of the electrosurgical apparatus, and the reference voltage is generated to a level so as to limit any difference between a voltage of the patient and a voltage of the body of the electrosurgical apparatus. In variations, the reference voltage is varied on an ongoing basis so as to adapt the reference voltage to one or more changing physical characteristics of the patient.

Abstract: A system and method for performing an electrosurgical procedure are disclosed. The method includes applying an active electrode to a patient and placing a return electrode on the patient so as to create a current path in tissue of the patient between the active electrode and the return electrode. A conductive element, which is operatively coupled to the active electrode, is coupled to a reference voltage with a low impedance path and a voltage is imparted to the active electrode so as to generate current in the current path. Any undesirable current flow that would otherwise flow from the active electrode to the reference voltage through the patient is limited to reduce a risk of harm to the patient.

Abstract: A system and method for performing an electrosurgical procedure are disclosed. The method includes applying an active electrode to a patient and placing a return electrode on the patient so as to create a current path in tissue of the patient between the active electrode and the return electrode. A conductive element, which is operatively coupled to the active electrode, is coupled to a reference voltage with a low impedance path and a voltage is imparted to the active electrode so as to generate current in the current path. Any undesirable current flow that would otherwise flow from the active electrode to the reference voltage through the patient is limited to reduce a risk of harm to the patient.

Abstract: An improved slant axis rotary mechanism of the type including a housing defining a chamber including an operating cavity, a shaft journalled in the housing and including an angularly offset portion within the chamber, and a rotor within the chamber and journalled on the angularly offset portion. At least one thrust collar is located on the shaft and is operatively associated with one of the rotor and the housing. Thrust bearing means are provided on the one of the rotor and the housing and are in slidable engagement wth the thrust collar. At least one lubricant port in the thrust collar is provided and opens to the interface of the thrust bearing and the thrust collar. Means are provided for directing a lubricant under pressure to the port to provide excellent lubrication of the thrust collar during operation of the mechanism.