A new bipolar instrument for laparoscopic tubal sterilization

Bipolar Electrosurgical Loop Excision Procedure for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

“…Electrosurgical techniques using bipolar and unipolar current systems have become popular in many surgical procedures, including laparotomy, laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, and dermatological procedures. Bipolar electrocoagulation, as introduced by Rioux, has replaced unipolar electrocoagulation during laparoscopic tubal sterilization procedures so as to reduce the chance of accidental thermal injury to the patient and surgeon [ 15–22]. Controlling the flow of electricity such that only the tissue (i.e., fallopian tube) between the bipolar forceps receives thermal energy has reduced significantly the incidence of bowel and other internal injuries [ 17–22].…”

Energy Sources in Laparoscopy

“…Lower voltages are used to achieve the same tissue effect, because the poles are in close proximity to each other. Once the cells are dehydrated and charred, the current stops flowing and thus limits the process from damaging surrounding structures [16]. Hemostasis is obtained without unnecessary charring by using the cutting waveform in most modern bipolar units.…”

State-of-the-art of non-hormonal methods of contraception: V. Female sterilisation

“…Following scattered reports on the serious complications occurring with unipolar diathermy a bipolar forceps for tubal electrocoagulation was devised 20 . This method differs from the conventional unipolar system in that the jaws of the grasping forceps serve as active and return electrodes.…”