Abstract:
In one aspect, a fixed position RF electrode for conducting surgical procedures, includes a main device body detachably connectable to an RF generating system, a first polarized conductor and a second oppositely polarized conductor, a bipolar electrical conduit passing through the main device body that passes RF energy from the RF generating system to the first polarized conductor and the second oppositely polarized conductor, and a bipolar electrode for contacting a surgically operative material.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present application is a Utility Application basing priority to provisional application No. 61/801,266 for a Radiowave System, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Electrosurgical instruments are well known and widely used in the medical, dental, and veterinarian fields. Electrosurgical instruments utilizing RF energy require adjustment of different operational parameters to achieve the desired surgical results for procedures such as cutting tissue and coagulating blood vessels. It would be useful to provide an instrument that achieves enhanced surgical accuracy, ease of use, and increased utilization of RF energy to perform surgical procedures while minimizing some of the negative effects of these instruments such as the pressing or pulling forces on tissue causing tears or electrosurgical arcing which can cause tissue burns. An electrosurgical tool adapted to respond to operational parameters such as power settings, temperature control, moisture levels, electrode configurations and RF energy settings would be useful in the surgical field. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    In one aspect, a fixed position RF electrode for conducting surgical procedures, includes a main device body detachably connectable to an RF generating system, a first polarized conductor and a second oppositely polarized conductor, a bipolar electrical conduit passing through the main device body that passes RF energy from the RF generating system to the first polarized conductor and the second oppositely polarized conductor, and a bipolar electrode for contacting a surgically operative material. The bipolar electrode includes a first electrode portion positioned at a tip of the bipolar electrode and in electrical communication with the first polarized conductor, a second electrode portion positioned at the tip of the bipolar electrode in electrical communication with the second polarized conductor; and an isolating region formed in between first electrode portion and the second electrode portion preventing electrical current flow between said first electrode portion and said second electrode portion. A first delivery conduit attached to the main device body and adapted to direct a liquid to a region of the surgically operative material in electrical contact with the first electrode portion. A second liquid delivery conduit attached to the main device body and adapted to direct a second liquid to a region of the surgically operative material in contact with the second electrode portion. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0004]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a fixed position RF electrode according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0005]      FIG. 2  is a top view of a fixed position RF electrode according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0006]      FIG. 3  is a left side view of a fixed position RF electrode; 
           [0007]      FIG. 4  is a left side view of a fixed position RF electrode; 
           [0008]      FIG. 5  is a cross-section view cut along A-A of a fixed position RF electrode of  FIG. 3  according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0009]      FIG. 6  is a top plan view of the distal end of a fixed position RF electrode; 
           [0010]      FIG. 7  is a top plan view of the distal end of a fixed position RF electrode; 
           [0011]      FIG. 8  is a top plan view of the distal end of a fixed position RF electrode; 
           [0012]      FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view cut along A-A of  FIG. 3  illustrating a delivery system for a fixed position RF electrode; 
           [0013]      FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view of a delivery system tube for a fixed position RF electrode according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0014]      FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view cut along A-A of  FIG. 3  illustrating an external delivery system for a fixed position RF electrode; 
           [0015]      FIG. 12  is a left perspective view of a fixed position RF electrode according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0016]      FIG. 13  is a left perspective view of a fixed position RF electrode according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0017]      FIG. 14  illustrates a top view of an electrode with additional features according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0018]      FIG. 15  illustrates a top view of an electrode with additional features according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0019]      FIG. 16  illustrates a top view of an electrode with additional features according to an aspect of the invention; 
           [0020]      FIG. 17  is top view of an embodiment of an electrode irrigation arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0021]      FIG. 18  is top view of an embodiment of an electrode irrigation arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0022]      FIG. 19  is top view of an embodiment of an electrode arrangement with additional features according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0023]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a fixed position RF electrode according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0024]      FIG. 21  is a perspective view of a fixed position RF electrode adapted with a delivery system according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0025]      FIG. 22  is a side view a distal end of a fixed position RF electrode adapted with a delivery system according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0026]      FIG. 23  is a perspective view of a fixed position RF electrode adapted with a collection system according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0027]      FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional view of fixed position RF electrode of  FIG. 23  at a tip of the electrode; 
           [0028]      FIG. 25  is a side view a distal end of a fixed position RF electrode adapted with lighting features according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0029]      FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a fixed position RF electrode according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0030]      FIG. 27  is a schematic of a fixed position RF electrode according to an embodiment of the invention; 
           [0031]      FIG. 28  is a side view of a fixed position RF electrode illustrating a disengagement circuit system according to an embodiment of the invention; 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0032]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a fixed position RF electrode  100 . The fixed position RF electrode  100  includes a body  102 , an energizer button  104 , a plug  106 , a cord  108 , an extension  110 , a first electrode  120 , and a second electrode  122 . Body  102  provides a gripping area for a surgeon to hold fixed position RF electrode  100 . Body  102  also provides structure for electrical components that may be included therein. Cord  108  connects plug  106  to body  102 . Plug  106  is intended to be received by a RF generating apparatus. U.S. Pat. No. 7,674,261 is incorporated by reference herein and provides an example of an RF generating device. 
         [0033]    Extension  110  extends distally and terminates with first electrode  120  and second electrode  122 . Fixed position RF electrode  100  (e.g., an electrosurgical system) may be used, for example, to provide tissue hemo stasis as well as cutting and coagulation, fulguration, ablation, desiccation, vaporization, among other uses. 
         [0034]      FIG. 2  is a top plan view of a fixed position RF electrode. A first pole  210  and a second pole  212  extend from plug  106  and are electrically conductive. When plugged into a RF generating apparatus, first pole  210  and second pole  212  provide energy through cord  108  into body  102 . Switch  104  allows control by a surgeon to turn on and off the RF energy. When switched on, RF energy flows through extension  110  to a first electrode lead  220  and a second electrode lead  222 . First electrode lead  220  is attached to first electrode  120  and second electrode lead  222  is attached to second electrode  122 . Thus, when a surgeon turns on an RF energy source by depressing switch  104 , energy may flow from first pole  210  through cord  108 , body  102 , switch  104 , first electrode lead  220  and first electrode  120 . The RF energy may then pass through the patient, patient fluids, adjuvant fluids, irrigation fluids, and complete the circuit by flowing into second electrode  122 , second electrode lead  222 , cord  108 , and second pole  212 . 
         [0035]    First electrode  120  and second electrode  122  may be spherical (e.g., ball-shaped) and may generally be in the range of 3-5 mm (three to five millimeters) in diameter. However, as discussed herein the geometry and dimensions of first electrode  120  and second electrode  122  may be modified and are not limited to the as-shown geometries. 
         [0036]      FIG. 3  is a left side view of a fixed position RF electrode. Body  102  may have other areas of interest including a front portion  310 , a front finger portion  320 , a central portion  330 , and a rear finger portion  340 . When a surgeon grips body  102 , their index finger may be in the region of front finger portion  320 . Their hand may be generally placed around central portion  330 , with the pinky being located near rear finger portion  340 . Front portion  310  may or may not be gripped by the surgeon&#39;s hand. A cross-section shown A-A of extension  110  is shown in more detail in  FIG. 5 . 
         [0037]      FIG. 4  is a left side view of a fixed position RF electrode. A center of gravity  410  is shown to provide the region where fixed position RF electrode  100  is generally balanced. A distal portion  420  is in front of center of gravity  410 . A proximal portion  430  is shown rearward of center of gravity  410 . Proximal portion  430  may also include generally the weight of cord  108  and plug  106 . However, proximal portion  430  may not include the weight of cord  108  and/or plug  106  if their mass is sufficiently small or negligible. 
         [0038]    By providing a center of gravity where most of the mass is near the surgeon&#39;s hand (e.g., see central portion  330 ), it provides a nimble use of fixed position RF electrode  100 . One skilled in the art will recognize other variants on this center of gravity configuration and the present invention is not limited to that described herein. Moreover, where the fixed position RF electrode  100  includes sensitive settings (e.g., for voltage, frequency, and/or current), then having a late distal portion  420  may allow the surgeon to use fixed position RF electrode  100  without the mass of fixed position RF electrode  100  pressing on tissue or fluids. This may allow a more efficient use of fixed position RF electrode  100  where the mass of fixed position RF electrode  100  is not interfering with the surgical procedure. In general, some fixed position RF electrodes  100  performance improves the lighter the application of pressure of the electrodes  120 ,  122 . Thus, the balance of fixed position RF electrode  100  may provide for more delicate usage, and improved performance. Where the balance of fixed position RF electrode  100  in the user&#39;s hand provides for a light touch, the mass is provided in the hand region so that there is less mass toward the distal end, providing a light and gentle application to tissue and fluids. 
         [0039]      FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view A-A of the fixed position RF electrode of  FIG. 3 . First electrode  120  and second electrode  122  are shown connected to the extension cross-section  510  of extension  110  by first electrode lead  220  and a second electrode lead  222 , respectively. Extension cross-section  510  foot is shown generally encapsulating a first electrode wire  520  and a second electrode wire  522 . Separation insulation  530  may be made of a material that insulates the RF energy flowing through extension  110 . 
         [0040]      FIG. 6  is a top plan view of the distal end  600  of a fixed position RF electrode. First electrode  120  and second electrode  122  are shown as separated by an angle D. The angle D may be provided as a fixed angle (e.g., where first electrode lead  220  and second electrode lead  222  are rigid), or angle D may be adjustable by the operator (e.g., the surgeon), where first electrode lead  220  and second electrode lead  222  are flexible. The angle provided may be, for example 50°. This angle D may also be adjusted based on the shape of first electrode  120  and second electrode  122 . The shape of first electrode  120  and second electrode  122  may be spherical, as shown, or they may include other geometries such as elliptical, conical, pure metal, flat, or they may include protrusions as shown in  FIGS. 14-16 . 
         [0041]    As shown, second electrode lead  222  diverges (e.g., slanted out at an angle) from first electrode lead  220  by angle D. As such, the width and/or diameter of extension  110  is reduced and provides enhanced visibility to the operator. As such the visibility of first electrode  120  and second electrode  122  are improved, as well as the visibility of the surgical site. 
         [0042]    First electrode lead  220  includes a first electrode section  610  and a second electrode section  620 . The second electrode section  620  and first electrode section  610  may be made from different materials. For example, the wire within extension  110  may be rigid or semi-rigid. However, the portion of second electrode section  620  may be flexible allowing the operator to adjust (e.g., bend) the second electrode section  620  so that first electrode  120  and second electrode  122  may be modified. 
         [0043]      FIG. 7  is a top plan view of the distal end  700  of a fixed position RF electrode. A first width  710  shows the outer width of the electrodes  120 ,  122 . Insofar that a second width  720  is narrower than first width  710 , improved vision is provided for the operator at the surgical site, and at the electrodes  120 ,  122  themselves. 
         [0044]      FIG. 8  is a top plan view of the distal end  800  of a fixed position RF electrode. A gap width  810  shows the distance between the inside surfaces of first electrode  120  and second electrode  122 . In a fixed electrode system, gap width  810  may be fixed as well, although they may be configured with divergent first electrode lead  220  and second electrode lead  222 . 
         [0045]      FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view of a delivery system  900  for a fixed position RF electrode. The cross-section of extension  110 , as shown herein, may include a first delivery system  910  and a second delivery system  920 . They may coexist within extension  110  with first electrode wire  520  and second electrode wire  522 . In general, first delivery system  910  and second delivery system  920  may be tubes that selectively transport irrigation, antibiotic, anticoagulant, and/or pain medication. However, first delivery system  910  and second delivery system  920  are not limited to these types of liquids to be delivered to the surgical site. 
         [0046]      FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view of a delivery system tube  1000  for a fixed position RF electrode. A delivery system body  1010  (e.g., a tube) may include a micro perforation  1020  for misting. Thus, the types of liquids carried by a delivery system (e.g., first delivery system  910  and second delivery system  920 ) may be selectively misted at the surgical site. Moreover, first delivery system  910  may include a misting system and second delivery system  920  may not include a misting system. However, either may be used. This would allow for example where some liquids allow for misting while others may not. 
         [0047]    The diameter and geometry of micro perforation  1020  may be determined based on the material being delivered, the pressures provided, and/or the flow rate desired. Moreover, the angle at the micro perforation  1020  may provide a narrow mist or a wide spray of mist. Examples of diameters for micro perforation  1020  may include 0.012 mm (point zero one two millimeters) to 0.2 mm (point two millimeters) provided from 10 PSI (ten pounds per square inch) to 500 PSI (five hundred pounds per square inch). 
         [0048]    Continuing in reference to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , delivery system  920  may be adapted to deliver a liquid, such as saline, to body tissue at a surgical site and in operation with electrodes  120  and  122 , or other electrode arrangements, to increase the effectiveness of an electro surgical procedure as will be discussed below. 
         [0049]      FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view of an external delivery system  1100  for a fixed position RF electrode. An external delivery system  1110  may be included outside of extension  110 . This may be a tube selectively attached to extension  110 , or it may be molded into or personally attached to extension  110 . Where external delivery system  1110  is selectively attached, the surgeon may decide what type of delivery system to attach to fixed position RF electrode  100  while performing a procedure. For example, if a high rate of flow for irrigation is desired, a larger inner diameter tube may be selectively attached. Alternatively, where a low rate of flow is desired, a smaller inner diameter two may be attached. In another example, misting may be desired and a tube having a misting end (e.g., as described in  FIG. 10 ) may be attached. 
         [0050]      FIG. 12  is a left perspective view of a separable fixed position RF electrode  1200  with the electrode system detached. A detachable electrode  1210  may be provided with a first electrode lead  1230  and a second electrode lead  1232 . The separable handpiece  1220  may include a first receiving socket  1240  and a second receiving socket  1242 . This may allow for different detachable electrodes  1210  to be selected during a procedure. This mail also allow for reuse of separable handpiece  1220 . While it is shown that detachable electrodes  1210  include male first electrode lead  1230  and second electrode lead  1232 , the male/female orientation of separable handpiece  1220  and detachable electrode  1210  may be reversed. 
         [0051]      FIG. 13  is a left perspective view of a separable fixed position RF electrode  1300  with the electrode system attached. Here, detachable electrode  1310  and separable handpiece  1220  are locked in place to form a single unit  1320 . When button  104  is activated, energy will flow to first electrode  120  and second electrode  122 . 
         [0052]      FIG. 14  is an example of an electrode with additional features  1400 . Electrode  1410  may be used for either of first electrode  120  and second electrode  122 , or both. A body portion  1420  of electrode  1410  may extend the electrode to an end feature  1430 . As shown, end feature  1430  is a point. This may allow for a focused application of RF energy when electrode  1410  is energized. In an example, second electrode  122  (see  FIG. 1 ) may be placed to touch patient tissue or fluids and the end feature  1430  (e.g., of first electrode  120 ) may be touched to the patient for focused application of RF energy. Alternatively, the electrode  1410  may be used in mono-polar or bi-polar mode. 
         [0053]      FIG. 15  is an example of an electrode with additional features  1500 . Electrode  1410  may include one or more features. As shown, electrode  1410  includes two features including end feature  1430  and a second feature  1520 . Each may be selectively applied to the patient for the desired effect. Where electrode  1410  is used for second electrode  122 , second feature  1520  points toward first electrode  120  and can be used in bi-polar mode to perform the procedure. Alternatively, end feature  1430  may be used in mono-polar mode. 
         [0054]      FIG. 16  is an example of two electrodes with additional features  1600 . A cutting loop  1610  extends from first electrode  120  toward second electrode  122 . An insulating gap  1620  holds cutting loop  1610  stably and attaches cutting loop to second electrode  122 , while maintaining electrical separation. Insulating gap  1620  may be made of plastic or another radiofrequency insulating material. An extension  1630  may or may not be present extending from second electrode  122 . In this configuration, the surgeon may, for example, use cutting loop  1610  to excise tissue. 
         [0055]      FIG. 17  is an example of an electrode irrigation arrangement  1700 . First electrode  120  may include irrigation port  1710  adjacent thereto, or directed to it. This would allow the surgeon to place irrigation at the electrode location, rather than the general surgical site. 
         [0056]      FIG. 18  is an example of an alternative irrigation arrangement  1800 . A first irrigation port  1810 , a second irrigation port  1820 , and a third irrigation port  1830 . Each of the irrigation ports  1810 ,  1820 ,  1830  may be provided with various fluids for use at the surgical site. For example, first irrigation port  1810  may provide saline, a second irrigation port  1820  may provide antibiotic, and third irrigation port  1830  may provide pain medication. 
         [0057]      FIG. 19  is an example of an alternative electrode arrangement  1900 . First electrode  120  and second electrode  122  may provide for bipolar RF electro-surgery. An insulated structure  1910  may also provide for a wireframe support along with first electrode  120  and second electrode  122 . First wireframe component  1920  may be electrically and structurally attached to first electrode  120 , and may be structurally attached but insulated from second electrode  122 . A second wireframe component  1930  may be electrically and structurally attached to first electrode  120  and structurally attached to insulated structure  1910 , along with third component  1940 . Fourth wireframe component  1950  may be insulated and structurally attached to second electrode  122  and electrically and structurally connected to first electrode  120  (through wireframe component  1940  and wireframe component  1930 ). Thus, wireframe component portions  1920 ,  1930 ,  1940 ,  1950  may be formed from a single wire or may be formed from separate pieces. Using the diamond region  1960 , the operator may cut provided the pattern of the wire (as shown a “V” shape). Alternatively, the operator may turn the fixed position RF electrode  100  and use first electrode  120  and second electrode  122  normally. 
         [0058]      FIG. 20  shows an embodiment of a fixed position RF electrode  2000 . The fixed position RF electrode  2000  includes a bipolar electrode  2010  located within sheath  112  and including an electrode tip  2011 . In this example bipolar electrode  2010  is a single electrode design comprised of two differently polarized electrode portions  2020  and  2030  formed together in a single shaft with an isolating region  2040  between the two. Charged electrode portion  2020  is isolated electrically from oppositely charged electrode portion  2030  by isolating region  2040  which may be formed of a material such as a plastic polymer insulator. The two electrode portions  2030  and  2020 , as one shaft in a single electrode design, may be formed from materials that permit flexibility of the bipolar electrode  2010 . When used in a surgical procedure, the two electrode portions  2020  and  2030  formed as one piece provide for precise and accurate positioning of the bipolar electrode  2010  for surgical procedures with minimal gap between the electrode portions. The bipolar electrode  2010  may be configured as a detachable electrode or formed as a single unit with fixed position RF electrode  2000 . Each electrode portion  2020  and  2030  is connected individually and electrically though extension  110  to cord  108  to plug  106  and to a RF generating apparatus. A first pole  210  and a second pole  212  extend from plug  106  and are electrically conductive. When plugged into a RF generating apparatus, first pole  210  and second pole  212  provide energy through cord  108  into body  102 . Switch  104  allows control by a surgeon to turn on and off the RF energy. When switched on, RF energy flows through extension  110  to electrode portion  2020  and to electrode portion  2030 . Thus, when a surgeon turns on RF energy by depressing switch  104 , energy may flow from first pole  210  through cord  108 , body  102 , a first conductor in extension  110  to electrode portion  2020 . The RF energy may then pass through the patient, patient fluids, adjuvant fluids, irrigation fluids, and complete the circuit by flowing into second electrode portion  2230  to a second conductor in  110  to connect to cord  108 , and second pole  212 . 
         [0059]    Continuing with  FIG. 20 , the fixed position RF electrode  2000 , in one embodiment, includes buttons,  2050 ,  2060 , and  2070 , on the top surface of body  102  and which may be pressed to initiate a features of the fixed position RF electrode  2000  as will be discussed in further detail below. Other examples of the invention may include a different number of buttons. 
         [0060]    The fixed position RF electrode  2000  includes a sensor  2090  located near the electrode tip  2011 . Sensor  2090  may be attached to the electrode  2010  in close proximity to electrode tip  2011 , or sensor  2090  may be integrated into the electrode  2010  and formed into a portion of the isolating material  2040 , or sensor  2090  may be attached separately to sheath  112 . In one embodiment, sensor  2090  monitors different parameters related to the operating characteristics of the fixed position RF electrode  2000 . The parameters monitored by the sensor may include a number of parameters including, but not limited to, temperature, voltage, current flow rate, the hydration or calcification of body tissue from a surgical site, moisture levels, or any other parameters related to the operation of the fixed position RF electrode  2000 . The sensor  2090  may be one or more of a type of sensor including a moisture sensor, optical sensor, electrical or magnetic field sensor, electrical circuit, capacitance proximity sensor, or others. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various types of sensors may be employed to monitor the fixed position RF electrode  2000  operational parameters. 
         [0061]    In an embodiment of fixed position RF electrode  2000 , sensor  2090  communicates electrically with controller  2080  to provide measurements, data, and signals from the operational parameters of fixed position RF electrode  2000  to the controller  2080  which may be used by the controller  2080  to adjust operational settings of the fixed position RF electrode  2000 . One embodiment of a system for communication between sensor  2090  and controller  2080  includes electrical wires connected to sensor  2090  and adapted for connection to controller  2080  through the interior of sheath  112  into the body  102  of the fixed position RF electrode to controller  2080 . In another embodiment, sensor may be attached to extension  110  and wiring may be formed into and insulated within extension  110  to controller  2080 . Communication between sensor  2090  and controller  2080  may wireless or Bluetooth communication. 
         [0062]      FIG. 20  illustrates controller  2080  as located in the body  102  of fixed position RF electrode  2000 . However controller  2080  may be located separately from the fixed position RF electrode  2000  such as a part of a remote RF generating system or a computer, but still in connection to communicate electronically with features of the fixed position RF electrode  2000 . Controller  2080  is in electrical connection with cord  108  and plug  106  and to receive power. 
         [0063]      FIG. 21  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a fixed position RF electrode  2100  with bipolar electrode  2010  adjacent delivery tubes  2115  and  2120  which are adapted for delivery of a liquid, spray, or mist to the surgical site in the area of the bipolar electrode tip  2011 . In one embodiment, the delivery tubes  2115  and  2120  are situated along side electrode  2010  and coexisting within sheath  112 . Tube openings  2021  and  2116  are positioned adjacent tip of electrode  2011  which would typically be situated at point of operation in the surgery site, in order to deliver a liquid spray or mist to the site of surgery. It should be understood that delivery tubes  2115  and  1120  may be of the type illustrated in delivery system  920  and be formed within extension  110 . 
         [0064]    Continuing with  FIG. 21 , pump  2125  connects to a liquid source  2160  which may include a bag, IV collapsible bag, or other liquid container to pull liquid from liquid source  2160 , through exterior conduit  2155 , through interior conduit  2150  to pump  2125 . Pump  2125  then delivers liquid through connection points  2140  and  2145  into delivery tubes  2120  and  2115 . The spray, mist or liquid pumped out to tubes  2115  and  2120  to be delivered to the site of surgery. A mechanism to polarize the liquid before it arrives at tube openings  2021  and  2116  may be used to provide polarized liquid to the surgical site. Pump  2125  may be a peristaltic type pump or another liquid pumping mechanism. One embodiment includes a pump  2125  in the body  102  of the fixed position RF electrode  2100 , but it should be recognized by those skilled in the art that a pumping mechanism may be situated outside of the fixed position RF electrode, still in connection with the liquid source  2160  and the fixed position RF electrode  2100 . 
         [0065]    In another embodiment, delivery of fluid to the fixed position RF electrode may include connection gravity-fed holding container such as a collapsible bag of saline which is connected to the fixed position RF electrode though  2155  hose that further connects to conduit  2150  into the body  102  of the fixed position RF electrode. This system of providing liquid to the fixed position RF electrode in a gravity fed system and the container or collapsible bag may be installed on a pole or other mechanism to keep the liquid stored above the level of the surgical site so that the liquid will flow down to the site without other means. 
         [0066]    In one embodiment, the liquid is a polarized saline solution which is delivered to the surgical site in the region near tip  2011  of bipolar electrode  2010  and the flow rate of saline is controlled. Controller  2080  communicates with pump  2125  for setting and adjusting the flow rate of the delivery of liquid to delivery tubes  2115  and  2120 . In one example, the flow rate is set to a pre-set or a constant rate for all operational setting of fixed position RF electrode  2100 . In another embodiment, the flow rate is set and adjusted depending on the type of surgical procedure being performed by the surgeon using the fixed position RF electrode  2100 . For example, a higher powered surgical setting may use a high flow rate of liquid while a lower powered setting may use a lower flow rate. In one embodiment, buttons  2050 ,  2060 , and  2070  are used to select a certain mode of surgical mode of operation, such as a cutting operation, the flow rate of liquid through pump  2125  may be pre-set for that mode. Controller  2080 , when receiving a signal from one or more of buttons  2050 ,  2060 ,  2070  selecting a specific mode of surgical operation, adjusts pump  2125  to pump a liquid at a pre-set flow rate for that mode of operation. Low, medium and high liquid flow rate settings and other levels may be pre-set for each mode of surgical operation by compressing one of buttons  2050 ,  2060  or  2070  multiple times or by another flow rate selection mechanism such as a foot switch or a slider switch. 
         [0067]    In another embodiment, sensor  2090  is used to determine how hydrated or calcified the body tissue is near the electrode tip  2011  to determine if more or less liquid is needed at the surgical site and then adjustment is made to the flow rate. Sensor  2090  may sense hydration as well as other parameters from the surgical site and communicate that data to the controller  2080 . The controller  2080  is programmed to adjust and maintain operational settings for the fixed position RF electrode  2100  using the signals from the sensor  2080 . 
         [0068]      FIG. 22  shows a side view of bipolar electrode  2100  near the electrode tip  2011 . A portion of extension  110  is shown with bipolar electrode  2010  including electrode portions  2020  and  2030  extending from it toward a surgical site  2210  which may include a type of body tissue. In this embodiment, electrode portion  2020  is charged as a first polarized setting, for example, negatively charged, while electrode portion  2030  is charged to the opposite polarized setting, for example, positively charged. It is understood that the polarization of the electrode portions  2020  and  2030  could be reversed. Alongside electrode portion  2020  is delivery tube  2115  which extends out from extension  110  to deliver a spray, mist, or liquid to the surgical site  2210 A near the tip of electrode  2011 . In one embodiment, a saline solution may be used and the saline solution is delivered in an ionized state. The saline solution from delivery tube  2115  is electrically charged or polarized to match polarization of electrode portion  2020  and is delivered to surgical site  2210 A. In a similar manner, delivery tube  2120  provides ionized liquid or mist such as saline solution to the surgery site  2210 B adjacent to electrode portion  2030 . In this example, both the saline from delivery tube  2120  and the electrode portion  2030  are positively charged. The liquid in each of delivery tubes  2115  and  2110  is polarized before arrival at the corresponding surgical site. 
         [0069]    In one example, the liquid spray or mist delivered in fluid contact with the body tissue of the surgery site  2210  provides an expanded pathway for current to flow between the positively charged electrode portion  2020  to the negatively charged electrode portion  2030 . The regions of bipolar saline  2210 A and  2210  B create a wider area or pathway for current flow at the surgical site  2210 , enhancing the effectiveness of the electrode  2010  to perform surgical procedures, particularly for the surgical procedures involving coagulation. 
         [0070]      FIG. 23  illustrates a fixed position RF electrode  2300  which includes a fluid uptake system  2310  attached to an outer bottom surface of extension  110  and further connected to an outer bottom surface of sheath  112 . It should be understood that fluid uptake system  2310  may be attached in other locations in fixed position RF electrode  2300 . Fluid uptake system  2310  includes a flared opening  2320  positioned in close proximity to the tip  2011  of the electrode  2010  and delivery tubes  2115  and  2120 . The flared portion  2320  pulls excess liquid or mist or body fluids from the surgery site and draws them up through tapered portion  2325  and then into uptake tube  2330 . Uptake tube  2330  is connected through a portion of body  102  to an interior uptake hose  2340  which then pulls the excess liquids into an uptake hose to a collection system  2350 . The collection system  2350  my include a vacuum pump or other mechanism to draw liquids, air, and other matter through the liquid uptake system  2310  and into a collection bag, drain or other disposable collection tray which may be included in the collection system  2350 . Fluid uptake system  2310  is activated by any one of different switching systems including a footswitch, button, trigger type switch. Fluid uptake system  2310  is connected to controller  2080  for adjustment of the uptake flow rate of fluids. The flow rate of the fluid through the uptake tube  2330  may be monitored in conjunction with the flow rate of saline delivery to delivery tubes  2115  and  2120  by sensor  2090  and an input sent from the sensor to the controller  2080  which modifies the flow rates in response. In one embodiment, controller  2080  adjusts liquid uptake system  2310  to draw liquid into the uptake tube  2330 , to control the areas of polarized liquid such as saline  2210  A and  2210  B, for improved operation of the bipolar electrode  2110  thereby improving the performance of the surgical procedure. Sensor  2090  monitor the surgery site and sends signals to controller  2080  for determine adjustments to using operational parameters such as saline delivery flow rate, liquid uptake flow rates and other operational settings of the fixed position RF electrode  2300 . 
         [0071]      FIG. 24  illustrates a cross section of  FIG. 23  at the electrode tip  2011  as viewed from the distal end of the fixed position RF electrode  2300 . Electrode portions  2020  and  2030  are shown separated by isolating area  2040  of bipolar electrode  2010 . Alongside of electrode  2010  are delivery tubes  2115  and  2120  which include micro perforations  2410  and  2420  through which a liquid such as a conductive saline solution can be delivered. The micro perforations  2410  and  2410  assist in providing a radial shape to the mist or spray of the liquid from delivery tubes  2115  an  2120 . In one example, radial spray of mist or liquid enhances the operational characteristics of the device and assists in the prevention of clogging of tubes  2115  and  2120 .  FIG. 24  illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which a portion of liquid uptake tube  2320  is attached to electrode  2110  at attachment point  2325  and includes a flared opening  2320  to pull liquid from a region adjacent the electrode tip  2011 . In one example, the flared opening  2320  includes a region wider than the width of electrode  2010 . Liquid uptake tube  2320  could be positioned further away from electrode  2110  such that a gap of space between the liquid uptake tube and electrode  2110  would be located at the connection point  2325 . Liquid uptake tube  2320  may be attached to liquid uptake conduit  2330  which may be made of a flexible material so that conduit  2330  may be bent to position opening  2320  in a particular location or at an particular angle. The shape of flared opening  2320  may be widened or narrowed and may be formed in another shape such as square or oblong to provide optimal capture of liquid materials into uptake conduit  2330 . 
         [0072]      FIG. 25  shows a perspective view of one embodiment of fixed position RF electrode  2500  including electrode  2110  with delivery tubes  2115  and  2120  in coexistence with the electrode  2110  inside extension  110  and further including light features  2510  and  2520 . In one embodiment, light features  2510  and  2520  are positioned at an end  2530  of sheath  112  so that light projected from light features  2510  an  2510  may be directed to the tip of the electrode  2011  and an area surrounding tip  2100  in the surgery site. The light features  2510  and  2520  may include LED&#39;s, fiber optic cables or other lighting mechanisms. The light features may be located closer to electrode tip  2011  or further along sheath  112  toward the body  102  of the fixed position RF electrode  2500  or another part of the fixed position RF electrode  2500  for different direction of the light. In one embodiment, light features  2510  and  2520  may be formed as part of extension  110  or attached to the outside of extension  110  with electrical connection back to buttons  2050 ,  2050 ,  2070  for switching of power on and off, and to electrical cord  108  for source of electrical power. 
         [0000]    An embodiment of the invention illustrated in  FIG. 23  includes pump  2125 , but other methods of liquid delivery may be used.  FIG. 26  shows a fixed position RF electrode  2600  which includes a compartmental door  2610  in body  102  of the fixed position RF electrode  2600  which may be opened at hinge points  2615  and includes a compartment  2620  to install a standard syringe  2630  containing liquid for storage and delivery of a liquid to the fixed position RF electrode  2600 . Clips  2640  are included in the interior of body  102  to hold syringe  2630  in place. Flexible attachment point  2650  connects an output of the syringe  2360  to conduits  2140  and  2145 . Attachment point  2650  may be made of a material such as plastic or rubber to form a water tight connection to a tip of syringe  2360 . The interior of body  102  includes lever mechanism  2670  for compressing the plunger  2675  on the syringe  2630  to force the liquid in the syringe  2360  toward attachment point  2650  and into conduits  2140  and  2145  when a user initiates the lever mechanism  2670  or other compression mechanism. The lever mechanism  2670  may be initiated by a footswitch, button  2050  or trigger type mechanism  2680 . 
         [0073]      FIG. 27  shows a schematic of the features of an embodiment of fixed position RF electrode  2600 . RF generating system  2710  connects to controller  2080 . Buttons  2050  (also  2060  and  2070  not shown) connect to controller  2080  providing inputs to controller  2080  for controlling features of the fixed position RF electrode  2700 . Sensor  2090  is connected to controller  2080  to provide inputs of operational parameters from the fixed position RF electrode  2700  and from the area of the surgical site  2210  itself. Controller  2080  is connected to bipolar electrode  2010 , delivery system pump  2125 , fluid collection system  2350 , and disengagement circuitry  2820 . Each of these features may be in two-way communication with the controller  2080 . Controller  2080  may receive and input signal from buttons  2050 ,  2060 ,  2070 , or sensor  2090  or another input such as a switch and, in response, controller  2080  is programmed to adjust one or more operational settings to bipolar electrode  2010 , delivery system pump  2125 , fluid collection system  2350 , and disengagement circuitry  2800 , or other features of the fixed position RF electrode  2700  that are connected to the controller  2080 . In one embodiment controller  2080  includes transformer circuitry  2720  which may be used to modify electrical characteristics such as power supplied to features of the fixed position RF electrode  2700 . For example, transformer circuitry may be used to polarize an electrode portion  2015  or  2020 , or to polarize liquid being transported in delivery tubes  2115  and  2120  or to modify electrical power for a delivery system pump  2125  or a lighting feature  2510  and  2520 . 
         [0074]      FIG. 28  illustrates an embodiment of fixed position RF electrode  2800  including a disengagement circuit system  2810 . Disengagement circuit system  2810  includes detection sensor  2820  which is in electrical contact with electrode  2830  and controller  2080 . In one example, detection sensor  2820  may be a capacitive touch sensor, a peizo electric sensor, or a mechanical switch adapted to detect when the electrode  2830  disengages from tissue  2850 . In another embodiment, detection sensor  2820  may detect when the conductive flow  2840  has changed or been disrupted between the electrode  2830  and the tissue  2850  at the surgical site. When detection sensor  2820  detects that the electrode  2830  has disengaged from the tissue  2850 , detection sensor  2820  sends a signal to controller  2080  to turn off RF generating system  2870  to the electrode  2830 . In one example detection sensor  2820  senses operations parameters indicating that bipolar electrode  2830  has disengaged from tissue  2850  and a signal is sent to controller  2080 . Controller  2080 , in response, adjusts power settings from RF generating system  2870  to shut off power to bipolar electrode  2830  ending the electrical connection of electrode  2830  with body tissue  2850 . In one example, the disengagement circuit system  2810  is utilized prevent tissue damage or arcing. 
         [0075]    Continuing with  FIG. 28 , electrode  2830  is in mechanical contact with stroke mechanism  2860  which provides a tolerance of mechanical movement of the electrode  2830  within a structure of a fixed position RF electrode  2800  to accommodate for contours in tissue  2850 . In one example stroke mechanism  2860  provides for gap distance  2865  of 0.125 inches of movement of the electrode in compression within electrode support structure  2815 . It should be understood that different gap distances  2865  may be used to increase or decrease tolerance of electrode  2380  with respect to tissue contours. This stroke mechanism  2860  allows some variation in engagement of electrode  2830  to tissue  2850  before detection sensor  2820  communicates a disengagement signal to the controller  2080 . In another embodiment, such as fixed position RF electrode  100 , the device may include disengagement circuits for both a first electrode  120  and second electrode  122 . 
         [0076]    In this specification, various preferred embodiments may have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto, and additional embodiments may be implemented, without departing from the broader scope of the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The present invention is thus not to be interpreted as being limited to particular embodiments and the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. 
         [0077]    It will be appreciated that the system and methods described herein have broad applications. The foregoing embodiments were chosen and described in order to illustrate principles of the methods and apparatuses as well as some practical applications. The preceding description enables others skilled in the art to utilize methods and apparatuses in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes, the principles and modes of operation of this invention have been explained and illustrated in exemplary embodiments. 
         [0078]    It is intended that the scope of the present methods and apparatuses be defined by the following claims. However, it must be understood that this invention may be practiced otherwise than is specifically explained and illustrated without departing from its spirit or scope. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various alternatives to the embodiments described herein may be employed in practicing the claims without departing from the spirit and scope as defined in the following claims. The scope of the invention should be determined, not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is anticipated and intended that future developments will occur in the arts discussed herein, and that the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into such future examples. Furthermore, all terms used in the claims are intended to be given their broadest reasonable constructions and their ordinary meanings as understood by those skilled in the art unless an explicit indication to the contrary is made herein. In particular, use of the singular articles such as “a,” “the,” “said,” etc. should be read to recite one or more of the indicated elements unless a claim recites an explicit limitation to the contrary. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that the method and apparatus within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby. In sum, it should be understood that the invention is capable of modification and variation and is limited only by the following claims.