RF bipolar end effector for use in electrosurgical instruments

The present invention relates, in general, to an improved bipolar electrode configuration for use in bipolar electrosurgical instruments and, more particularly, to a bipolar electrode configuration including electrodes arranged around a fixed height tissue slot. The present invention is directed to a bipolar electrosurgical end effector for use in medical instruments. A bipolar end effector according to the present invention includes a tissue slot and electrodes arranged on either side of the tissue slot. The opposing electrodes are electrically connected such that tissue passing through the slot is electrically treated with electrosurgical current passing laterally through the tissue. An end effector according to the present invention further includes a tissue separator arranged at the end of the slot to divide tissue as it is passed through the slot and after it is treated.