Abstract:
A transformer coupled power transmitting and isolated switching circuit is disclosed for use in an electrosurgical apparatus to transmit power from a power generator to a utilization instrument for enabling electrosurgery and to transmit mode information from the utilization instrument to the power generator for enabling control of the operational mode of the generator. The electrosurgical power generator is coupled to the utilization instrument through an isolating transformer. The isolating transformer is loaded in a preselected manner under the control of a logic circuit with the load on the isolating transformer then being sensed and the sensed loading information utilized to control the mode of operation of the power generator to assure that power generator operates in the desired mode for the electrosurgery function then required.
Abstract:
An electrosurgical generating system and method including an electrosurgical generator; and a handpiece including an active electrode connected to the electrosurgical generator for applying electrosurgical current from the generator to a patient, the handpiece having switches disposed thereat for changing the level of the output power delivered from said generator to said patient whereby the change may be effected from the sterile field of a surgical procedure. The above switches together with cut and coagulation mode switches disposed at the handpiece are so connected as to minimize the number of wires needed to connect the handpiece to the generator. Decoding circuitry for determining the status of the switches is also disclosed.