Radiofrequency energy-induced heating of bovine articular cartilage: evaluation of a new temperature-controlled, bipolar radiofrequency system used at different settings.

Abstract

This in vitro investigation determined temperature changes associated with radiofrequency energy-induced heating of bovine articular cartilage using a newly developed, temperature-controlled, bipolar radiofrequency system at different settings. Cartilage tissue samples were placed in a saline bath maintained at room temperature. Radiofrequency energy was applied using a temperature-controlled, bipolar radiofrequency system at four different settings. Fluoroptic thermometry recorded temperatures at the radiofrequency electrode-tissue interface at 1-second intervals before, during delivery (1-5 seconds), and after delivery (1-3 seconds) of radiofrequency energy. Ten data acquisitions were obtained at each equipment setting. There were statistically significant (P<.05) increases in cartilage tissue temperatures associated with the different temperature settings. The temperature at the radiofrequency electrode-tissue interface was relatively close to the equipment's set temperature. These data provide basic information for the temperature-controlled, bipolar radiofrequency system applied to articular cartilage and may be useful in guiding electrosurgical equipment for thermal-assisted chondroplasty.