FLUID-ASSISTED ELECTROCAUTERY DEVICE

摘要

An electrocautery instrument (10) is provided with a source of conductive fluid coupled to a proximal end of a hollow electrode (16). Conductive fluid is communicated through said electrode (16) and expelled out of the distal end thereof during electrocautery, forming a "virtual electrode". The infused conductive liquid conduits the RF electrocautery energy away from the conductive electrode (16), thereby displacing the region of thermal generation and reducing the extent of burns and perforations caused by conventional electrocautery electrodes. In one embodiment, the electrode (16) is partially disposed within and extends distally out of a retractable suction tube (14), such that smoke and fluid are aspirated from the electrocautery site. When the suction tube (14) is fully advanced, the electrode (16) is concealed therein, enabling suction without electrocautery to be performed.