System and method for reducing patient return electrode current concentrations
First Claim
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1. A return electrode for use in an electrosurgical system, the return electrode comprising:
- a non-conductive pad; and
a plurality of concentric, electrically isolated conductive elements coupled to a surface of the non-conductive pad, wherein each conductive element defines a leading edge located in relatively close proximity to a source of electrosurgical energy, wherein each conductive element is independently electrically connectable to the source of electrosurgical energy.
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Abstract
A return electrode for use in an electrosurgical system is provided. The return electrode includes a non-conductive pad; and a plurality of concentric, electrically isolated conductive elements coupled to a surface of the non-conductive pad. Each conductive element defines a leading edge located in close proximity to a source of electrosurgical energy. Each conductive element is independently electrically connectable to the source of electrosurgical energy.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A return electrode for use in an electrosurgical system, the return electrode comprising:
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a non-conductive pad; and
a plurality of concentric, electrically isolated conductive elements coupled to a surface of the non-conductive pad, wherein each conductive element defines a leading edge located in relatively close proximity to a source of electrosurgical energy, wherein each conductive element is independently electrically connectable to the source of electrosurgical energy. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5)
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6. An electrosurgical system, comprising:
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an electrosurgical generator; and
a return electrode selectively connectable to the electrosurgical generator, the return electrode including a plurality of concentric, electrically isolated conductive elements, wherein each conductive element defines a leading edge located in relative close proximity to the electrosurgical generator, wherein each conductive element is independently electrically connectable to the electrosurgical generator. - View Dependent Claims (7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
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16. A method of performing monopolar surgery comprising the steps of:
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providing an electrosurgical system including;
an electrosurgical generator; and
a return electrode connected to the electrosurgical generator, the return electrode including a plurality of concentric, electrically isolated conductive elements, wherein each conductive element defines a leading edge located in close proximity to the electrosurgical generator, wherein each conductive element is independently electrically connectable to the electrosurgical generator;
placing the return electrode into contact with a patient;
generating electrosurgical energy via the electrosurgical generator;
transmitting electrosurgical energy between an active electrode and the return electrode via the patient;
measuring the current along the leading edge of each conductive element; and
switching a respective conductive element out-of a circuit when the measured current along the leading edge of the respective conductive element exceeds a predetermined threshold current level. - View Dependent Claims (17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification