Tri-mode electrodes with integral temperature sensing

A method for desiccating tissue using an apparatus for desiccating tissue, said apparatus including an electrode assembly having a metal electrode and a heating element, and a radio frequency (RF) generator for generating an RF signal, the method comprising:

• selecting, by the RF generator, one of:
• a first mode for conduction, in which said RF signal is directed to said metal electrode and applied to said tissue,
• a second mode for heating, in which said RF signal is directed to said heating element and heat produced by said heating element is applied to said tissue, and
• a third mode, in which said RF signal is directed to said metal electrode and said heating element simultaneously, such that said RF signal and said heat are applied to said tissue at the same time.

An electrode assembly for desiccating tissue, said electrode assembly comprising:

• a heating element for applying heat to said tissue in response to receiving an electrical signal;
• a substrate covering said heating element;
• a metal electrode on a portion of said substrate for applying said electrical signal to said tissue in response to receiving said electrical signal;
• and
• a temperature sensor integrated within said substrate for detecting a temperature of said metal electrode.