Bipolar energy uses what configuration?

Bipolar energy uses what configuration?

• A. Tissue is placed between two electrodes; current flows only through tissue contiguous with both electrodes; lower energy requirement, less lateral tissue damage; can seal vessels up to 7 mm.
• B. A single electrode delivers energy to tissue with a return path through the patient.
• C. Current flows through all tissue in contact with the device.
• D. It requires higher energy and causes more lateral damage.

Answer: (A)

Bipolar energy uses two electrodes that are part of the same instrument, with tissue placed between the tips. When energy is applied, current flows directly from one electrode to the other through the tissue between them. This confines the heating to a small, localized path, reducing collateral thermal spread to nearby structures and allowing effective sealing with lower energy. Because the current path is so localized, vessels up to a certain size (often cited around 7 mm) can be reliably sealed. In contrast, monopolar energy uses a single active electrode with a distant return pad, so current travels through much more tissue, increasing lateral damage and energy requirements.

Bipolar energy uses two electrodes that are part of the same instrument, with tissue placed between the tips. When energy is applied, current flows directly from one electrode to the other through the tissue between them. This confines the heating to a small, localized path, reducing collateral thermal spread to nearby structures and allowing effective sealing with lower energy. Because the current path is so localized, vessels up to a certain size (often cited around 7 mm) can be reliably sealed. In contrast, monopolar energy uses a single active electrode with a distant return pad, so current travels through much more tissue, increasing lateral damage and energy requirements.