#$%^&*AU2009202933B220131107.pdf#####VARIABLE RESISTOR JAW ABSTRACT A bipolar forceps (10) includes an end effector assembly (100) having opposing first and second jaw members (110, 120) each having a proximal end (111, 121) and a 5 distal end (113, 123). The jaw members (110, 120) are movable relative to each other in order to grasp tissue therebetween. An electrically conductive surface (112, 122) having two or more conductive sealing plates (116) and a dielectric layer is operably coupled to the first jaw member (110). Each sealing plate (116) is connected to a reactive element and positioned along the electrically conductive surface (112) from the proximal end io (111) to the distal end (113). The reactive element of the sealing plate (116) positioned on the proximal end (11l) of the first jaw member (110) has a different impedance than the reactive element positioned on the distal end (113). An electrically conductive surface (112) having one or more conductive sealing plates (116) is operably coupled to the second jaw member (120). Each electrically conductive surface (112) on the jaw is members (110, 120) connects to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the sealing plates (116) are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal.1/6 cJo C CD C JOD 1~w Ul1)
