Importance

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Abstract

A bipolar instrument for use by a surgeon to seal tissue with bipolar electrosurgery. The bipolar instrument is a modified hemostat including two elongate members. Each elongate member has a proximal end to be held by a surgeon and a distal end. The elongate members substantially defining a plane and are electrically conductive for transmitting high frequency electrosurgery. A pivot transverse to the plane connects the two elongate members for scissors-like motion between the distal ends. A first tissue contacting pole integral with one elongate member and positioned at its distal end is electrically conductive for transmitting high frequency electrosurgery. Latching elements extend from each elongate member for cooperative interengagement with opposed ramps and abutting stops for sliding conjugation to hold the first and second tissue contacting poles with a predetermined force. An insulated over shoe for placement on the other elongate member at its distal end attaches with a slip fit to prevent longitudinal or transverse movement. That distal end has a reduced cross section for receiving the insulated over shoe in an opening extending thereinto in tunnel fashion. The insulating over shoe has clips for engagement with and about the other elongate member. A second tissue contacting pole affixed to the insulated over shoe and disposed in mirror relationship to the first tissue contacting pole. Two electrical terminals located proximal relative to the pivot to receive bipolar electrosurgery from a source. A first conductor between one terminal and the first tissue contacting pole and a second conductor between the other terminal and the second tissue contacting pole pass bipolar electrosurgery. A switch interrupts continuity in the second conductor for controlled electrosurgery. The switch is atop the pivot in position for surgeon control. A method of assembling the bipolar instrument has the steps of slipping the insulated over shoe onto the other elongate member at its distal end, and attaching the insulated over shoe to the elongate member to prevent longitudinal or transverse movement between the insulated over shoe, the elongate member and the other elongate member.

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First Claim