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Abstract

An electrosurgical generator has an active electrode output connector and a return current connector, the generator providing an electrosurgical current at the active electrode output connector, and including a fault detection circuit for monitoring the proper operation of the generator. An active electrode is connected to the active electrode output connector for receiving the electrosurgical current from the generator and applying the electrosurgical current to a patient. A patient return electrode provides capacitive coupling with the skin of a patient. A patient return electrode cable is electrically connected to the patient return electrode. An interface module is electrically connected to the return current connector of the generator and to the patient return electrode cable for permitting return of the electrosurgical current from the patient to the generator via the patient return electrode and the patient return electrode cable. The interface module electrically simulates to the fault detection circuit of the electrosurgical generator a fault condition when the patient return electrode does not provide sufficient contact with the skin of a patient, whereby operation of the electrosurgical generator is terminated.

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First Claim