Abstract: A universally functional biomedical electrode is disclosed, where the electrode has a resistive element that reduces edge effect by a redistribution of current within the electrode and in mammalian tissue contacting the electrode. In one embodiment, the electrode has at its perimeter in one layer the resistive element that provides a cross-sectional area to reduce edge effect regardless of the type of biomedical instrumentation connected thereto. With the construction of other layers suitable for multifunctional electrode usage, this electrode can serve as a single item in inventory at health facilities.

Abstract: A universally functional biomedical electrode is disclosed, where the electrode has a resistive element that reduces edge effect by a redistribution of current within the electrode and in mammalian tissue contacting the electrode. In one embodiment, the electrode has at its perimeter in one layer the resistive element that provides a cross-sectional area to reduce edge effect regardless of the type of biomedical instrumentation connected thereto. With the construction of other layers suitable for multifunctional electrode usage, this electrode can serve as a single item in inventory at health facilities.

Abstract: A universally functional biomedical electrode is disclosed, where the electrode has a resistive element that reduces edge effect by a redistribution of current within the electrode and in mammalian tissue contacting the electrode. In one embodiment, the electrode has at its perimeter in one layer the resistive element that provides a cross-sectional area to reduce edge effect regardless of the type of biomedical instrumentation connected thereto. With the construction of other layers suitable for multifunctional electrode usage, this electrode can serve as a single item in inventory at health facilities.

Abstract: A method of monitoring the contact of a biomedical electrode to skin of a patient is disclosed, where the phase angle of current flow through one portion of the electrode is compared to the phase angle of current flow through another portion of the electrode. The two portions are both electrical conductors, one having a lossy dielectric surface and the other bare metal. Any monitoring of an electrical interface is possible based on the difference in phase angle. Lift of any portion of the electrode from contact with skin of a patient can be monitored more easily than using conventional Contact Quality Monitoring circuitry and “split plate patient plates.

Abstract: A method of monitoring the contact of a biomedical electrode to skin of a patient is disclosed, where at least two different frequencies are employed to periodically monitor total contact impedance of the electrode. The ratio of the change of the total contact impedances over time can then be monitored to indicate the amount of lift of the biomedical electrode from human skin to which it is supposed to be adhered. Lift of any portion of the electrode from contact with skin of a patient can be monitored more easily than using conventional Contact Quality Monitoring circuitry and "split plate patient plates.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode is disclosed, having a geometry of a perimeter of hydrophilic adhesive exceeding the perimeter of an area containing electrically conductive plate(s). The geometry unexpectedly causes a reduction in edge effect for dispersive electrodes and cardiac stimulation electrodes due the substantial equilibration of the conductive adhesive with epidermis of a patient the electrode contacts for a period of time sufficient to cause such substantial equilibration.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode having an electrically non-conductive backing and at least one, and preferably two, conductive plates contacting the electrically non-conductive backing. A field of lossy dielectric material is used between the electrically conductive plate(s) and the surface of the electrode applied to a patient. A field of conductive adhesive contacts both the conductive plate(s) and the field of lossy dielectric material. The electrode does not operate purely capacitively, nor does it operate purely resistively. Hot spots due to "edge effect" are substantially reduced. At the same time, the biomedical electrode functioning as a electrosurgical dispersive electrode has an impedance within the range expected by the contact monitoring safety circuits provided with many current electrosurgical generators. The biomedical electrode also can function as a cardiac stimulating electrode, such as a defibrillation, cardioversion, or pacing electrode.

Abstract: A bioelectrode having a backing, a conductive layer adjacent to the backing, and a layer of conductive adhesive adjacent to the conductive layer. This bioelectrode is designed to have two special configurations. It is originally manufactured in its first configuration wherein the backing forms a sealed protective enclosure for the layer of conductive adhesive. When a physician is ready to apply the electrode to a patient, the electrode is readily converted to its second configuration wherein the layer of conductive adhesive is exposed for contacting and adhering the bioelectrode to the body of the patient.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode is disclosed, having a geometry of conductive plates along a longitudinal axis of the electrode such that interior edge(s) of the plate(s) adjoining the axis are curvilinear or otherwise non-parallel to the axis. The geometry permits the electrode to register an earlier detection of a CQM alarm condition if a portion of the electrode unpeels from contact with the body of a mammalian patient before the extent of unpeeling would otherwise cause a CQM alarm condition established by and issued from an electrosurgical generator.

Abstract: An article especially suited for use as a vibration isolating or shock absorbing structure comprising a multitude of short, resiliently compressible, elastic, tubular, rubbery bodies held together in closely-packed relationship by restraining means. The rubbery bodies comprise a cured thermosetting millable extrudable composition having in the cured state an elasticity in excess of 200% and an elongation at break in excess of 300%. The tubular bodies are characterized by having a length to diameter ratio from about 2:1 to about 8:1 and a wall thickness of at least 0.025 inch.