Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for facilitating diathermy coagulation or ablation of tissue by the application of an electrical current to tissue is connectable to an electrosurgical generator having an active lead and a return lead, and has both monopolar and bipolar embodiments. A preferred monopolar embodiment includes a shaft and a knurled active electrode rotatably secured to the shaft. A preferred bipolar embodiment includes a knurled active electrode separated by an insulator from a return electrode, with the active and return electrodes rotatably secured to a shaft by axles. The shafts may be Y-shaped, crook-shaped, or otherwise. The active electrodes have a plurality of discrete electrically conductive discharge points for applying the electrical current to a plurality of discrete tissue locations, the discharge points preferably being formed as knurl peaks. The active electrode may be formed of a stick-resistant metal, may be covered in part or whole by a nonstick coating, and may be formed in a variety of shapes and sizes.

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First Claim