Patent ID: 6126658
Filing Date: 2000-10-03
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
Apparatus for welding a vessel comprising:a first member having a first vessel engaging surface;a second member having a second vessel engaging surface, the second vessel engaging surface disposed in opposing relation to the first vessel engaging surface, the second member operatively coupled to the first member to progressively engage a portion of the vessel disposed between the first and second members to squeeze fluid out and define an engagement plane;first and second bi-polar electrodes disposed in spaced apart relation on one of the first and second members and adapted to be in communication with the engagement plane, the first and second bi-polar electrodes adapted to be coupled to a source of RF energy to provide a flow of current between the first and second bi-polar electrodes; anda channeling electrode disposed on one of the first and second members at a location at least partially intermediate the first and second bi-polar electrodes and adapted to be in communication with the engagement plane, the channeling electrode adapted to direct the flow of current between the first and second bi-polar electrodes through a portion of vessel in contact with the channeling electrode.