Method of using reinforced flexible circuits with multiple sensors to optimize performance of radio frequency devices

A method implemented by a surgical instrument comprising an end effector, a marking assembly, and a control circuit, the end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw movable relative to the first jaw to grasp tissue therebetween, a plurality of sensors, and a tissue-treatment mechanism configured to apply a tissue treatment to tissue grasped between the first jaw and the second jaw, the method comprising:

• receiving, by the control circuit, a plurality of sensor signals from the plurality of sensors indicative of application of a tissue treatment to the tissue;
• controlling, by the control circuit, radiofrequency (RF) energy to the end effector to treat the tissue;
• and
• applying, by the marking assembly, a distinct marking to the tissue unique to the tissue treatment application, wherein the distinct marking distinguishes the tissue treatment application from other tissue treatment applications.

A method implemented by a surgical instrument comprising a control circuit, a multi-level flexible electrode, the multi-level flexible electrode comprises first, second, and third insulative layers, the multi-level flexible electrode further comprises at least one therapeutic electrode and at least two sensing electrodes, the at least one therapeutic electrode positioned between the first and second insulative layers, wherein the at least one therapeutic electrode is couplable to a source of radiofrequency (RF) energy, the at least two sensing electrodes positioned between the second and third insulative layers, the method comprising:

• contacting tissue by the at least one therapeutic electrode and the at least two sensing electrodes;
• delivering RF energy to the contacted tissue by the at least one therapeutic electrode;
• sensing, by the at least two sensing electrodes, a parameter associated with tissue positioned between first and second jaws of the surgical instrument;
• controlling, by the control circuit, RF energy delivered to the at least one therapeutic electrode based on the sensed parameter;
• applying a tissue treatment, by the at least one therapeutic electrode, to the tissue grasped between the first jaw and the second jaw;
• and
• receiving, by control circuit, sensor signals indicative of application of the tissue treatment to the tissue;
• and applying, by a marking assembly, a distinct marking to the tissue unique to the tissue treatment application;
• wherein the distinct marking distinguishes the tissue treatment application from other tissue treatment applications.