Controlled study of Inline radiofrequency coagulation-assisted partial nephrectomy in sheep

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Technology
• Nephrology

Background:

• Partial nephrectomy is a common procedure for kidney tumors, often associated with significant intraoperative blood loss.
• Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy presents unique challenges regarding bleeding control.
• The Inline radiofrequency coagulation (ILRFA) probe, initially developed for liver surgery, utilizes radiofrequency energy to create a coagulative plane, reducing parenchymal transection bleeding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the Inline radiofrequency coagulation (ILRFA) probe in reducing blood loss during partial nephrectomy in an ovine kidney model.
• To compare the bleeding associated with ILRFA-assisted partial nephrectomy versus conventional diathermy and suture techniques.

Main Methods:

• Seven sheep underwent laparotomy and general anesthesia.
• Five partial nephrectomies were performed using the ILRFA probe.
• Control partial nephrectomies were performed using diathermy and sutures.
• Blood loss was quantified by the weight difference of dry and blood-soaked sponges.
• A paired t-test analyzed the difference in bleeding between the ILRFA and control groups.

Main Results:

• Mean blood loss with ILRFA was 33.14 g (SD 17), compared to 123.43 g (SD 72) in the control group.
• A statistically significant reduction in bleeding was observed with the ILRFA technique (P=0.0056).
• The application time for ILRFA ranged from 3 to 4 minutes.

Conclusions:

• Partial nephrectomy in an ovine kidney model can be successfully performed using radiofrequency energy.
• The ILRFA probe significantly reduces intraoperative blood loss compared to conventional methods.
• This technology shows potential for improving safety and efficiency in renal surgery.