Article
Evaluation of the coagulationvolumes of new developed, resterilizable, monopolar radiofrequency applicators in vitro
Search Medline for
Authors
Published: | September 22, 2005 |
---|
Outline
Text
Introduction: The radiofrequencytherapy of hypertrophic soft palate, tongue base and nasal turbinates is a well established method. In this study a newly developed monopolar applicator (ERBE Elektromedizin, Tübingen) for soft palate, tongue base and nasal turbinates is presented and its effect on tissue in vitro.
Method: The monopolar radiofrequency applicators were tested under standarized and controlled conditions. The applicator`s effect on temperatured pork tongue (34°C) was measured with a variable application time. For this experiment the VIO 300D (ERBE Elektromedizin, Tübingen) delivered a constant power of 12 Watt with constant current and tension voltage. Each experiment contains 5 series for each time protocol for which the coagulation volume and the length of the lesion were measured.
Results: With the softpalate applicator the volume of the lesion was 0,057 cm³ after 10 seconds (s) of activation, after 15s it was 0,123 cm³, and after 20s 0,137 cm³. For the nasal turbinate applicator it was after10s 0,053 cm³, after 15s 0,084 cm³, after 20s 0,116 cm³, for the tongue base respectively 15s 0,048 cm ³, after 30s 0,17 cm³ and after 45s 0,23cm³
Discussion: These results are the basis for in vivo treatment to reduce side effects such as ulcus, abscess or neuronal damage.