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Published on: May 5, 2017
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Cryoelectrolysis-electrolytic processes in a frozen physiological saline medium
Franco Lugnani1, Matteo Macchioro2, Boris Rubinsky3
1Clinica Santa Elena , Malaga , Spain.
Peerj
|January 27, 2017
Summary
Electrolysis can occur in frozen saline solutions during cryoelectrolysis, particularly at high subzero temperatures and throughout thawing. This finding supports the use of cryoelectrolysis as a minimally invasive surgical technique.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Cryoelectrolysis combines electrolytic ablation and cryosurgery for minimally invasive tissue ablation.
- Investigates the feasibility of electrolysis within frozen saline solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that electrolysis can occur in frozen aqueous saline.
- To analyze the parameters of cryoelectrolysis in a simulated tissue environment.
Main Methods:
- Performed cryoelectrolytic ablation on physiological saline gel with pH dye.
- Measured current, voltage, freezing extent, and pH dye staining.
Main Results:
- Electrolysis confirmed in frozen saline above the eutectic temperature.
- Significant electrolysis observed during freezing at high subzero temperatures and throughout thawing.
- Electro-osmotic flows influence cryoelectrolysis at anode and cathode.
Conclusions:
- Electrolysis in frozen tissue occurs via ionic movement in concentrated saline channels between ice crystals.
- Optimal timing for electrolytic currents in cryoelectrolysis is during high subzero freezing and the thawing stage.
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