What is the most significant benefit of using bipolar electrosurgery compared to monopolar electrosurgery?

The most significant benefit of bipolar electrosurgery compared to monopolar electrosurgery is less thermal spread. In bipolar electrosurgery, the current passes between two electrodes located on the same instrument, which allows for precise control of the surgical zone. This means that the energy is concentrated only in the area being treated, resulting in minimal collateral damage to surrounding tissues. Reduced thermal spread is crucial in surgeries where tissue preservation is vital, as it helps minimize complications and promotes faster healing.

Bipolar techniques are particularly advantageous in delicate areas where damage to adjacent structures can lead to significant postoperative issues. In contrast, monopolar electrosurgery can lead to a wider area of thermal damage since the current travels from the active electrode to the grounding pad, affecting a larger volume of tissue along the way. Thus, the ability of bipolar electrosurgery to limit thermal impact is a key reason it is often preferred in various surgical applications.