| abstract |
An electrosurgical return electrode configured to be operatively associated with a transponder detection unit. The return electrode includes a conductive element, the conductive element having an array of apertures configured to allow passage of a magnetic, electrical, or electromagnetic interrogation signal from the transponder detection unit through the conductive element and through the return electrode. The return electrode is positionable over the transponder detection unit such that the return electrode can be placed on the transponder detection unit and a patient can be placed on the return electrode. The return electrode enables detection of transponders located on, in, and/or in the vicinity of the patient without the need to reposition the patient relative to the return electrode and without the need to position an auxiliary transponder reader or transmitter over the patient. . |