What is the primary role of electrodes in electrosurgery?

The primary role of electrodes in electrosurgery is to deliver electrical current for cutting or coagulating. In this context, electrodes are vital tools that facilitate the transfer of electrical energy to the target tissue. When the electrical current is applied, it generates heat, which serves to cut or coagulate tissues effectively. This process is essential for precision surgical procedures, allowing for controlled incisions and minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.

The other roles, such as providing cooling to the tissue, measuring tissue resistance, or stimulating nerve endings, are not primary functions of the electrodes in electrosurgery. Cooling may occur as a secondary effect through methods like irrigation, but it is not a function of the electrodes themselves. Measuring tissue resistance can be part of certain monitoring techniques, but it does not describe the primary function of electrodes in the context of electrosurgery. Likewise, while stimulation of nerve endings may occur inadvertently, it is not the intent or primary role of electrodes during surgical procedures.