The invention relates to a bipolar clamp (
10) comprising two scissor members (
12, 14), which are joined together mechanically by means of an insulating screw or similar pivot joint (
16) about which they can rotate with respect to one another, but are electrically insulated from one another,
- electrode components (18, 20) at distal ends (22, 24) of the scissor members (12, 14) for grasping tissue and conducting an electrical current through the tissue to cause. coagulation,
- handle devices (26, 28) at proximal ends (30, 32) of the scissor members (12, 14),
- current-supply means (34, 40, 42) at the proximal end (32) of one scissor member (14)
- ratchets (36, 38) between the pivot joint (16) and the proximal ends (32, 34) to lock, the scissor members (12, 14) to one another in a closed position.
In accordance with the invention the current-supply means (34, 40, 42) are so disposed, and the ratchets (36, 38) are so constructed, that current flow from the current-supply means (34, 40, 42) to the electrode components (18, 20) is possible only in the closed position. These measures make manipulation of the bipolar clamp (10) safer, because a coagulation current cannot flow until the clamp is in the closed position.