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Abstract

An electrosurgical instrument and method for making and using the same is provided. The electrosurgical instrument includes a stainless steel blade whose surface is plated with an intermediate layer comprising a substantially non-toxic metal having a hardness of at least about 130 on a Knoop scale and an electrical resistivity not exceeding about 15 microhm-cm at 20.degree. C., with the intermediate layer having a non-stick coating. The non-stick coating prevents tissue from sticking to the instrument during surgery while the intermediate metal layer enhances the electrical conductivity of the instrument for more efficient cauterization of tissue with less power consumption. The combination of an intermediate metal layer with an outer non-stick coating eliminates the need to choose between quick and efficient cauterization during surgery and the prevention of tissue sticking to the instrument.

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First Claim