Abstract: A surface electrode for long-term electrical communication with a skin surface of a patient, the surface electrode including: (a) a highly-conductive foil, for operatively connecting to a power source, for communication of an electrical signal between the highly-conductive foil and the skin surface of the patient, and (b) a securing arrangement for securing the highly-conductive foil to the skin surface, wherein the foil has a plurality of macroscopic air-permeable regions for fluid communication of air with the skin surface, and wherein the plurality of macroscopic air-permeable regions has a first surface area, the foil has a second surface area, and a ratio of the first surface area to the second surface area is at least 0.1.

Abstract: A removable semi-insulating sheet for use in self-limiting electrosurgical return semi-insulating sheet for use with electrosurgery. Through the selection of impedance characteristics for the electrode materials of the principal body of the semi-insulating sheet, and through tailoring of semi-insulating sheet geometries, the return electrode of the present invention is self-regulating and self-limiting as to current density and temperature rise so as to prevent patient trauma. The semi-insulating sheet has an effective bulk impedance equal to or greater than about 4,000 ?·cm. The effective bulk impedance of the sheet may arise from resistive components, capacitive components, inductive components, or combinations thereof. The configuration of the presently described return electrode allows the electrode to self-limit the electrode's current densities, thereby preventing burning of a patient during surgery.

Abstract: A tactile device for an aircraft operator has a plurality of tactors for being passively attached to an aircraft operator, the plurality of tactors including a first tactor and a second tactor neighboring the first tactor. A control system controls actuation of the tactors as a function of a variable representing a characteristic of the operation of the aircraft, the control system actuating the first tactor when the variable reaches a first predetermined value, and actuating both the first and second tactor when the variable reaches a second predetermined value different from the first predetermined value. Other tactile devices and methods for actuating tactile devices are also provided.

Abstract: An electrode configuration and its method of manufacture. The electrode includes a pad of material having a first end, an opposite second end, a top surface and a conductive bottom surface. At least one fold line is provided in the pad of material between the first end and the second end. The pad of material is folded over along the fold lines to create a folded form. The folded form has a flap element that extends from one of the folds to the second end of the pad of material. The flap element enables a clip to attach to the pad of material without peeling the remainder of the pad of material from a person's skin.

Abstract: Apparatuses, devices, and/or systems that may be configured for placement at one or more cortical and/or other neuroanatomical sites to provide electrical stimulation and/or monitor neuroelectric activity within a patient. In one embodiment, an implantable articulated electrode assembly may include an array of electrodes or electrical contacts carried by a support member configured to be implanted or positioned relative to a set of neuroanatomical sites. Various embodiments of the articulated electrode assemblies may comprise multiple portions, segments, paddles, and/or panels having spatially divergent placement capabilities in relation to one another. Such segments or panels may be positioned in a variety of manners relative to each other and/or one or more neuroanatomical sites or locations, which may facilitate establishment of an intended type of stimulation field distribution and/or monitoring configuration.

Abstract: A neural lead and method of treating neurological disorders by stimulation of the cerebral cortex of the brain is provided. The lead is designed for reduction of strain between the lead body and the lead paddle caused by the position of the lead body above the cranium and the lead paddle beneath the cranium. The lead is also designed to include a two dimensional chronic electrode array for better stimulation coverage of the target area of the cerebral cortex. A method of treating a neurological disorder by stimulating the cerebral cortex is also presented.

Abstract: A method for biological tissue ablation includes shaping a shapeable RF antenna to accommodate the contour of a body vessel adjacent a biological tissue load; generating a train of radio frequency (RF) energy pulses at an output frequency for transmission in a transmission line to the shapeable RF antenna adjacent the biological tissue load; sensing a reflected signal and a forward signal of the RF energy pulses; and adjusting output frequency of the RF energy pulses to effect a substantial match of transmission line impedance with shapeable RF antenna and biological tissue load impedance.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system is provided which includes an electrosurgical energy source; a return pad including a conductive surface; and a return pad cable connector selectively connectable to the electrosurgical generator. The return pad cable connector includes a cord having a conductive wire disposed therethrough, the conductive wire have a first end which connects to the electrosurgical energy source; and a connector operatively coupled to the cord. The connector includes a conductive surface which is selectively engageable with a corresponding conductive surface disposed on the return pad and is in electrical contact with a second end of the conductive wire, the conductive surface of the connector including a conductive adhesive disposed thereon; and a non-conductive adhesive disposed about the periphery of the conductive surface of the connector for engagement with a corresponding non-conductive adhesive disposed about the periphery of the conductive surface of the return pad.

Abstract: A surface electrode for long-term delivery of an electrical signal to a skin surface of a patient, the surface electrode including: (a) a flexible, at least partially-conductive surface layer for physically contacting the skin surface, and for delivering thereto the electrical signal, and (b) an electrically conductive layer, operatively connected to the partially-conductive surface layer, for transferring the electrical signal thereto, wherein the at least partially-conductive surface layer has a thickness of less than 0.5 mm, and preferably contains a conductive gel or artificial skin.

Abstract: A defibrillator electrode pad assembly has an adhesive release sheet configured to be removed while the electrode pad is held in a desired position on the patient. The release sheet is folded in a substantially U-shaped configuration and includes a pull-tab to be grasped by the user. The electrode pad is applied to the patient by positioning the electrode pad on the patient's skin with the release sheet facing the skin and in contact with or closely adjacent to the skin, without lifting the electrode pad from the patient's skin, pulling on the pull-tab to remove the release sheet to expose the adhesive portion, and adhering the adhesive portion to the patient's skin.

Abstract: A conductive layer is made of a carbon fiber. A conductive lead wire is connected to the conductive layer to lead an electric signal. A conductive gel layer is attached to a first face of the conductive layer and adapted to be adhered on a living body. The conductive gel layer is formed from at least water, polymeric monomer, aminoalcohol as a pH adjuster, and a cross-linking agent so as to have a pH in a range from 8 to 13.

Abstract: A return pad cable connector, in accordance with the present disclosure, for use with a disposable return pad, includes a cord having a conductive wire disposed therethrough which conductive wire interconnects the return pad cable connector to an electrosurgical energy source. The return pad clamp further includes a connector operatively coupled to the cord, the connector having a conductive surface which is selectively engageable with a corresponding conductive surface disposed on the return pad, the conductive surface of the connector including a conductive adhesive disposed thereon and a non-conductive adhesive disposed above the periphery of the conductive surface of the connector for engagement with a corresponding non-conductive adhesive disposed above the periphery of the conductive surface of the return pad. The connector can include a magnet for magnetically coupling the connector to the conductive surface disposed on the return pad.

Abstract: Electrodes are provided, for example including: (a) a first electrode component including a conductive skin-contacting element, and (b) a second electrode component including a thin electrical conductor. The first and second electrode components may be positioned during storage of the electrode so that the conductive skin-contacting element is not in contact with the thin electrical conductor, and configured so that they can be brought into contact prior to use of the electrode with a surface of the conductive skin-contacting element in contact with a surface of the thin electrical conductor.

Abstract: Medical electrode arrangements are provided for electrotherapy and monitoring applications. In one embodiment, each electrode arrangement includes a smaller electrode that is releasably attached to the back of a larger electrode. For adult applications, the larger electrode is applied to the patient. For pediatric applications, the larger electrode is preferably removed, and the smaller electrode is applied to the patient. Face-to-face and back-to-back electrode arrangement configurations are also provided. In a further embodiment, an electrode arrangement is comprised of first and second conductive regions of a common substrate that are separable by a division line in the substrate. For adult applications, stored energy is conducted through both conductive regions. For pediatric applications, the second region of the substrate is removed along the division line. A sensing mechanism is also provided to detect whether the electrode arrangement has been placed in an adult or pediatric configuration.

Abstract: A connector for connecting a wire to an electrode includes a rigid body which presses downwardly against the wire and presses it into contact with the laminated sheet member of the electrode. The body includes first and second pairs of spaced apart prongs and third and fourth prongs, all of which pierce the laminated sheet member and are bent upwardly into contact with the central portion of the connector.

Abstract: An electrode system is provided that generates a current flow that envelops and permeates an entire wound site. The electrode system includes two electrodes that are shaped and oriented to cause the current to flow from one electrode through the wound to the other electrode. A first electrode is applied to the wound site and the second electrode encircles the first electrode and is applied to the skin surrounding the wound cite. The two electrodes may be mounted to an oxygen-permeable layer that provides support for the electrodes and allows the wound site to breathe. An electrically insulative element may be disposed between the two electrodes. A power supply, which may be local to or remote from the electrode system, is provided for applying a voltage potential across the electrodes. In another suitable embodiment, the two electrodes are comprised of oppositely charged polymers.

Abstract: A TENS electrode formed by multiple layers, wherein a layer of self-adhesive conductive gel base onto which the conductive body is mounted. An isolating pad mounted on the conductive body, and a lead wire securely sandwiched in between the conductive body and the isolating tape. The conductive body is made of carbon fiber to provide the advantages of low impedance and superior softness. Further, since the conductive body is made of nonmetallic material, any electromagnetic interference is avoided.

Abstract: A pair of disposable medical electrodes for delivering high-energy defibrillation or pacing stimulation are provided and include a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The positive electrode and the negative electrode each include an electrode member with a top face and a bottom face, a electrically conductive coating of a metal and a metal chloride, the coating being disposed on the bottom face, and an electrically conductive gel pad disposed on the coating. The amount of metal chloride included in the coating on the negative electrode is greater than the amount of metal chloride included in the coating on the positive electrode.

Abstract: An electrode providing electrical contact with a patient's skin includes a conductive member adapted for connection to an external electrical apparatus and a non-liquid water containing film for electrically interfacing to said patient's skin, the non-liquid film being electrically and mechanically connected to said conductive member. The non-liquid water containing film includes an electrically conductive organic polymer plasticized with a polyhydric alcohol with said organic polymer being derived from a monomeric mixture comprising from about 2 to 30 pph acrylic acid, 2 to 30 pph of a glycolvinylether and 0.01 to 1.5 pph of a crosslinking agent. Preferably the polyhydric alcohol is glycerol.

Abstract: An electrode generally comprises a body, which makes up the electrode and which is formed as a thin flexible polymeric substance such as urethane foam. The electrode body includes a central inner conductive area, which is associated with a first electrode connector. Around the inner conductive area is a non-conductive area formed as a ring around the inner conductive area and there is also an outer conductive area provided as a ring, concentrically arranged around the non-conductive area. Electrode connector (6B) is connected to the outer conductive ring. The electrode body, which has a release tag and is supported on a backing sheet and body can be peeled off the backing sheet using the release tag. The condition of the electrode can be evaluated using a test device, which can for example measure electrical impedance across the electrode via electrodes (6A) and (6B).

Abstract: A dual function medical pad is disclosed for both controlling patient temperature and providing a patient-to-electrode interface. The pad includes a fluid containing layer for containing a thermal exchange fluid circulated therethrough, wherein the medical pad is operable for thermal exchange with a patient through a first side of the fluid containing layer. One or more electrodes are interconnected to the fluid containing layer on the first side (e.g. electrosurgical return electrode(s), EKG electrode(s), pacing/defribullation electrode(s)). Preferably, an electrical connector is electrically connected to the electrode and extends through the fluid containing layer to a second side thereof. Such electrical connector is interconnected or selectively interconnectable to a signal cable. The pad may further include an adhesive surface which extends over at least a portion of the first side of the fluid containing layer. Preferably, the adhesive surface substantially covers the electrode(s).

Abstract: A sensor device in the form of a substantially flat package for receiving and transmitting signals, to be monitored and/or recorded, comprising, in combination a first layer in the form of an annulus having an undersurface to adhere to the skin of a patient; a second layer in the form of a conductive sensing layer peripherally bounded by the first layer and having an undersurface adapted for contact with the skin of the patient; a conductive terminal extending above the second layer in adjacent and conductive relation therewith; a protector extending in shallow dome configuration over the first and second layers and over the terminal; and a conductive lead extending over edges defined by the first and second terminals, and under the protector, for protected contact with the terminal, and to transmit signals for monitoring or recording.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation device method provides for exact repeatable positioning of stimulation pads onto a body part. The device includes a flexible member for contacting a body part and hook/loop members for tightly supporting the flexible member against the body part. At least one electrical bus is provided which may include a connector for enabling connection of the bus to an electrical lead wire and an electrical contact disposed on the inside of the flexible member. A conductive pad is provided which has dimensions substantially smaller than the dimensions of the flexible member and includes a cover adhesive layer for removably adhering the conductive pad to the flexible member inside with a first side of the cover layer covering the bus contact and an electrical communication therewith. A current controlling media is adhered to a second side of the cover layer and a base layer disposed on the current controlling media is provided for removably adhering the conductive pad to the body part.

Abstract: Electrode assemblies are provided, in which a pair of electrodes is joined by a central member. In some implementations, the electrode assemblies are foldable, and are configured to facilitate correct placement on a patient's chest. Some electrode assemblies include a separable electrode, allowing the electrode assembly to be fitted to patients having particularly large chests.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation device method provides for exact repeatable positioning of stimulation pads onto a body part. The device includes a flexible member for contacting a body part and hook/loop members for tightly supporting the flexible member against the body part. At least one electrical bus is provided which may include a connector for enabling connection of the bus to an electrical lead wire and an electrical contact disposed on the inside of the flexible member. A conductive pad is provided which has dimensions substantially smaller than the dimensions of the flexible member and includes a cover adhesive layer for removably adhering the conductive pad to the flexible member inside with a first side of the cover layer covering the bus contact and an electrical communication therewith. A current controlling media is adhered to a second side of the cover layer and a base layer disposed on the current controlling media is provided for removably adhering the conductive pad to the body part.

Abstract: A joint protector includes a band surrounding a human body and having an inner side and an outer side. A power supplier is securely attached to the outer side of the band. A flexible heating pad is attached to the inner side of the band and electrically connected to the power supplier. The flexible heating pad provides heat energy to warm the user's skin and reduce pain due to the electric resistance of the flexible heating pad. An inner layer is securely adhered on the inner side of the band for covering the flexible heating pad.

Abstract: A device for attaching at least three electrodes to a subject for stimulating abdominal muscles of the subject. The device comprises an attachment mechanism that further comprises a main locating element for locating a central electrode of the at least three electrodes, and two secondary locating elements disposed on respective opposite sides of the main locating element for locating two corresponding side electrodes of the at least three electrodes spaced apart from the central electrode. A receiver is also provided for receiving a signal generated by a signal generator for generating at least one pulsed signal. A selector is also provided for selecting one or more of the electrodes through which a pulsed signal is to be applied.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for an apparatus for trans-surface molecular includes a non-conductive carrier having a proximal surface, a distal surface, and a plurality of through holes from the proximal surface to the distal surface, a plurality of first electrodes disposed on the proximal surface, a first conductor disposed on at least a first portion of the distal surface and extending through at least a first portion of the plurality of through holes and connected to the first electrodes on the proximal surface, a plurality of second electrodes disposed on the proximal surface, and a second conductor disposed on at least a second portion of the distal surface and extending through at least a second portion of the plurality of through holes and connected to the second electrodes on the proximal surface, wherein the first electrodes and the second electrodes are configured and disposed in closely spaced relation on the proximal surface for engaging the tissue surface and applying an electric field.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes a conductive flexible member having a top side and a bottom side with a non-conductive flexible sheet covering the conductive flexible member top side. A connector in contact with the conductive flexible member bottom side is provided for establishing electrical contact with an external electrical apparatus. A conductive adhesive adhered to the conductive flexible member bottom side provides electrical conduction to a patient's skin.

Abstract: An RF diathermy coil assembly, including a generally elastically deformable patient conforming garment and a conductive coil secured to the garment. The conductive coil having a woven wire construction such that the coil can deform as the garment elastically deforms. The RF diathermy coil assembly can be used for wound healing in conjunction with muscle stimulation.

Abstract: A non-polarizable, silver/silver chloride biomedical electrode that is protected against corrosion during its shelf life by an organic corrosion retarding agent, preferably selected from the group consisting of mercaptans and azoles.

Abstract: The electrode comprises a) a layer (5) which conducts electricity for the supply or the collection of an electrical current traversing the electrode, and b) a consumable electrochemical interface layer (7). According to the invention, it comprises, in addition, an intermediate layer (6) made of a chemically inert and electrically resistant material. This layer can consist of a dispersion of fine particles of carbon in a polymer binder. Application in the preparation of electrodes with increased electrochemical capacity, for an ionophoresis device for the transdermal administration of drugs or a device for the electrocicatrization of wounds.

Abstract: An electrode providing electrical contact with a patient's skin includes a conductive member adapted for connection to an external electrical apparatus and a non-liquid water containing film for electrically interfacing to said patient's skin, the non-liquid film being electrically and mechanically connected to said conductive member. The non-liquid water containing film includes an electrically conductive organic polymer plasticized with a polyhydric alcohol with said organic polymer being derived from a monomeric mixture comprising from about 2 to 30 pph acrylic acid, 2 to 30 pph of a glycolvinylether and 0.01 to 1.5 pph of a crosslinking agent. Preferably the polyhydric alcohol is glycerol.

Abstract: A unitary electrode mounting and packaging system for roughening the skin of a patient and applying an electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring electrode to the skin in a single step. A sheet of a thin plastic material is folded over itself to form a U-shaped carrier having an upper panel connected to a lower panel by the fold. The upper panel supports an electrode and an amount of an electrically conductive gel in a pocket that is covered by the electrode. The lower panel includes an abrasive or roughened material on the bottom surface of the lower panel opposite the electrode. To place the electrode on the skin, the carrier is positioned against the skin of a patient such that the roughened material contacts the skin and pressure is applied downwardly on the electrode. A tab connected to the lower panel then is grasped and pulled by an individual such that the roughened material abrades the skin beneath the carrier to clear the portion of the skin located beneath the electrode.

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: An ECT, EEG, EMG, ENG or impedance pneumography hospital electrode is designed for use on neonates in high humidity environments, such as in a high humidity incubator. The electrode includes a silver-silver/chloride sensor; a signal transmitting lead connected to the sensor; and an electrically conductive, self-adhesive gel which electrically connects the sensor to the patient's skin. The conductive, self-adhesive gel is formed from a hydrogel which is hydrophilic in nature. In order to stabilize the adhesiveness of the gel in the high humidity environment, the gel is provided with an adjunct non-hydrophilic adhesive member which provides improved adhesion to the skin while maintaining contact between the conductive gel and the patient's skin. The use of the adjunct adhesive member enables the electrode assembly to be used in the high humidity environment for extended periods of time without becoming detached from the patient's skin.

Abstract: An electrode-pad storage package includes an interior for storing one or more electrode pads and a window that provides a view into the interior. Because it has a window, the package often reduces the time it takes for an operator to attach the electrode pad or pads to a patient. For example, such a see-through package often saves precious seconds by allowing the operator to view the instructions on a defibrillator electrode pad or pads, and thus determine which electrode pad goes where, before opening the package. Such a package may also save time by allowing the operator to determine the pad type, and thus determine whether the electrode pad or pads are appropriate for the patient, before opening the package. In this latter case, the package may also prevent the operator from unnecessarily opening, and thus wasting, a package containing an inappropriate electrode pad or pads.

Abstract: A self-limiting electrosurgical return electrode for use with electrosurgery. Through selection of impedance characteristics for the materials of the principal body of the electrode, and through tailoring of electrode geometries, the electrode is self-regulating and self-limiting as to current density and temperature rise to prevent patient trauma. The return electrode includes a sheet of material having an effective bulk impedance equal to or greater than about 4,000&OHgr;.cm and one or more connectors for making electrical connection to the sheet. The effective bulk impedance of the sheet may arise from resistive components, capacitive components, inductive components, or combinations thereof. Configuration of the return electrode allows the electrode to self-limit the electrode's current densities, thereby preventing burning of a patient during surgery. Through employment of washable surface areas, the electrode is made readily cleanable, disinfectable, sterilizable, and reusable.

Abstract: An array of electrodes is constructed to allow the user to easily adjust to the correct size of the patient's head. The array is self-adhesive, pre-gelled and disposable. The array fits easily over the temple and forehead areas where EEG signals can be acquired by specially designed monitors for purposes of monitoring a number of bodily phenomena, including but not limited to, depth of anesthesia, and/or ischemia, and burst suppression. The array is connected to the monitor via a tab connector that is integral to the disposable device. The tab connector is insertible into a reusable connector that is part of a monitoring system.

Abstract: A biological electrode includes an electrode element having electroconductivity with respect to a living body, the biological electrode used by disposing said electrode element at a predetermined position, and the electrode element being made of biodegradable material.

Abstract: An implantable medical device (IMD) is disclosed that is formed on a substrate composed of liquid crystal polymer (LCP). In one embodiment, the IMD can be an interconnection module for interconnecting an electrode array to an equipment module. The interconnecting module includes conductors disposed on the LCP substrate and coupled to the electrode array, and wherein the conductors are encapsulated using a silicone or LCP encapsulant. In another embodiment, the IMD is an electrode array and interconnect module disposed on an integral LCP substrate. An equipment module can be coupled to the interconnect module. Alternatively, a hybrid electronic circuit can be coupled to the interconnect module for signal processing and conditioning signals received from the electrode array or for providing stimulus signals to the electrode array. In this embodiment, all of the conductors and at least a portion of the electrodes in the electrode array are encapsulated using a silicone or LCP encapsulant.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes a first conductive polymerizable gel layer for electrically coupling the electrode to a body and a flexible porous electrical conductor disposed on the first gel layer. A second conductive polymerizable gel layer disposed on the flexible porous electrical conductor and polymerized with the first layer through the porous conductor. An electrical connector disposed in connect with the second gel layer enables the electrical connection to an outside power source, or monitoring device, and an insulative backing is adhered to the second gel layer to prevent inadvertent contact therewith.

Abstract: There is provided a skin engageable, electrode assembly for making selectable contact with the skin. The electrode facilitates the selective collection of electrical data and/or provides selective electrical stimulation. The electrode includes a conductive element, preferably of fabric construction, a semi-fluid conductive layer surrounding the conductive element, a cover preferably made of a perforated fabric or other porous material cell, and one or more temperature sensitive wires embedded in the cover that constrict when heated to cause the semi-liquid conductive layer to permeate the cover via the pores to engage the skin for electrical communication. When the wires cool, they loosen causing the semi-fluid conductive layer to be reabsorbed within the cover to prevent electrical communication with the skin.

Abstract: An electrode system is provided that generates a current flow that envelops and permeates an entire wound site. The electrode system includes two electrodes that are shaped and oriented to cause the current to flow from one electrode through the wound to the other electrode. A first electrode is applied to the wound site and the second electrode encircles the first electrode and is applied to the skin surrounding the wound cite. The two electrodes may be mounted to an oxygen-permeable layer that provides support for the electrodes and allows the wound site to breathe. An electrically insulative element may be disposed between the two electrodes. A power supply, which may be local to or remote from the electrode system, is provided for applying a voltage potential across the electrodes. In another suitable embodiment, the two electrodes are comprised of oppositely charged polymers.

Abstract: An electrode for acquiring bioelectrical signals employs an array of spikes that penetrate the viable epidermis layer of the skin of a patient. The spikes may be conductive to provide the bioelectrical signal. Or, the spikes may extend through a conductive layer that provides the bioelectrical signal. The signal obtained from the patient may be amplified using an amplifier and battery circuit present on the electrode body. The electrode may be used with or without conductive paste or gel.

Abstract: A disposable medical electrode for delivering high-energy defibrillation or pacing stimulation and having energy dispersion characteristics. A fanned wire contacts the top of an electrode member for delivering energy to and transmitting energy from the electrode. A hydrogel is disposed on the bottom of the electrode member and an electrically conductive metal/metal chloride ink coating underlies the hydrogel. The ink coating has (a) a center with a first amount of ink, (b) an inner edge defining the terminus of the center and a step at which the ink content of the ink coating drops from the first amount of ink to a lesser second amount of ink, (c) an outer edge defining the terminus of the ink, and (d) a predetermined gradient disposed between the inner edge at which the ink coating has the second amount of ink and the outer edge at which the ink is substantially absent.

Abstract: A capacitive reusable electrosurgical return electrode pad for use with electrosurgery. Through selection of the electrode geometries and the impedance characteristics of the electrode, the electrode is self-regulating and self-limiting as to current density and temperature rise so as to prevent patient trauma. The electrosurgical return electrode can include a connector and a sheet of material having an effective bulk impedance equal to or greater than about 100,000 &OHgr;·cm. The electrode can have a working surface area from about 11 to about 1,500 square inches (or about 70 to about 10,000 square centimeters). The electrode can be disposed on the working surface of an operating table or dentist's chair immediately underlying a patient during electrosurgery. This very large working surface area eliminates the need for direct contact or contact through conducting gels and by employing washable surface areas, it is made readily cleanable and reusable.

Abstract: The invention provides an electrode kit for muscle stimulation to be used in conjunction with a splint, the kit including an electrode carrier attachable to an interior surface of the splint and consisting of a relatively thin, flexible, tray-like member; a thin, flexible electrode member fixedly attached to the electrode carrier, and a skin-contacting pad member consisting of a piece of medium-absorptive material fixedly mounted on a rigidifying frame attachable to, and removable from, the electrode carrier.

Abstract: A system for detecting and marking the positions of peripheral nerves is disclosed. A reusable electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes is combined with a disposable skin attachment system comprising hydrogel islands. In use, the electrode array is connected to a peripheral nerve detection instrument. The disposable skin attachment system is then attached to an electrode sensor region. The skin attachment system is then adhered to an area of skin, detection is carried out, and then the electrode array is peeled back from the skin, leaving a skin marking guide in place. The skin marking guide is then used to mark areas of interest to a therapist.

Abstract: A pair of disposable medical electrodes for delivering high-energy defibrillation or pacing stimulation are provided and include a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The positive electrode and the negative electrode each include an electrode member with a top face and a bottom face, a electrically conductive coating of a metal and a metal chloride, the coating being disposed on the bottom face, and an electrically conductive gel pad disposed on the coating. The amount of metal chloride included in the coating on the negative electrode is greater than the amount of metal chloride included in the coating on the positive electrode.