Force Bipolar Forceps (da Vinci)
Force Bipolar combines bipolar coagulation with selectable grasp strength. Its distinguishing feature is a default grip and a temporary stronger grip, not continuously maximal force. It is a bipolar grasper and not a vessel-sealing-and-cutting instrument.[1]
Model and Platform
| Variant | Relevant specification |
|---|---|
| Multiport Force Bipolar | Manufacturer X/Xi data sheet describes an 8 mm instrument with a wrist and selectable grip strength.[2] |
| SP Force Bipolar | Separate 6 mm instrument, including standard and extended-range versions cleared in FDA submission K241814. Its default grip corresponds to the SP fenestrated bipolar predicate; strong mode gives grip characteristics 50% greater than its own default, according to the submission.[3] |
Check the exact part number, platform, compatible energy system, available grip controls and remaining uses. An X/Xi instrument is not interchangeable with an SP instrument. The product name also does not mean ProGrasp with bipolar energy, and selectable grip strength should not be confused with force-feedback technology. Older reports listing ProGrasp do not establish use of Force Bipolar.
Choosing the Instrument
| Task | Practical consideration |
|---|---|
| Fine curved-tip dissection and selective coagulation | Maryland bipolar may provide a more suitable tip shape. |
| Broad grasping and retraction | Fenestrated bipolar or Force Bipolar in default mode may suit the task; broad jaws do not make traction atraumatic. |
| Intermittently firmer traction plus bipolar coagulation | Force Bipolar permits a temporary stronger grip when needed; reduce force or release if tissue is deforming or tearing. |
| Sealing and dividing a defined vessel/pedicle | Use a purpose-built vessel sealer, clips or ligatures as indicated. Do not borrow a sealer's 5–7 mm capacity for a conventional bipolar grasper. |
In reconstruction, possible tasks include traction during bladder mobilization, scar or mesh dissection and exposure for suturing. These are task-based examples, not evidence that Force Bipolar improves outcomes or should directly grasp delicate ureter, bowel, nerves or a flap pedicle. Choose tissue purchase and traction according to the structure being handled.
Safety and Evidence Limits
Bipolar current is delivered between the active jaw surfaces, but heat can extend beyond them and remain after activation. No fixed 2–3 mm margin establishes safety next to nerves, ureter or bowel. Use the current instrument and generator instructions, visibility of both jaws, restrained activation and cooling awareness (in a bovine-tissue bench study, adjustable bipolar instruments spread heat above the 45°C nerve-injury threshold by 2.2 mm at 60 W for 1 s and 3.6 mm at 2 s); consider cold dissection or nonthermal hemostasis around vulnerable structures.[4]
Published cross-specialty setup descriptions often use broad terms such as “bipolar grasper.” They cannot be used to assign Force Bipolar a proven superiority in grip, dissection precision, tissue safety or surgical outcomes. Device selection should reflect the actual model, surgical task and team familiarity.
See also: Maryland Bipolar, Fenestrated Bipolar, ProGrasp, Energy Devices.
References
1. Intuitive. Force Bipolar: DualGrip and bipolar-coagulation features. Manufacturer product information. Accessed September 2026.
2. Intuitive. Force Bipolar data sheet: X/Xi 8 mm configuration. Manufacturer data sheet.
3. US FDA. Da Vinci SP Instruments, K241814. November 18, 2024. Device description and Force Bipolar comparison. 510(k) summary.
4. Hefermehl LJ, Largo RA, Hermanns T, et al. Lateral temperature spread of monopolar, bipolar and ultrasonic instruments for robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery. BJU Int. 2014;114(2):245–252. doi:10.1111/bju.12498.