ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE SELECTABLE ELECTRODES

摘要

An electrosurgical instrument is provided for cauterization and/or welding of tissue of varying impedances, thicknesses, vascularity and tissue treatment statuses, especially in the performance of endoscopic procedures. The instrument provides a tissue treating portion comprising at least three electrodes from which at least two electrode pairs of different electrical potentials of an electrosurgical system may be selected. The electrode pairs are strategically located with respect to the end effector, so that they may be selected to provide a desired result. They may also be selected based on a predetermined condition, for example, the impedance of the tissue as seen by the generator. Also, the tissue treatment locations may sequentially selected or the tissue temperature may be controlled. The electrode pair selection may be varied by an automated or user controlled switching device.