Comparison Between 2 Types of Radiofrequency Ablation Systems in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Randomized...

Radiofrequency ablation is commonly used in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR). New technology devices incorporating a plasma bubble may generate lower intra-articular temperatures and be more efficient.

To compare a plasma ablation device with a standard ablation device in arthroscopic RCR to determine which system is superior in terms of intra-articular heat generation and diathermy efficiency.

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

This was a single-center randomized controlled trial. The inclusion criteria were adult patients undergoing primary RCR. Patients were randomized preoperatively to the standard ablation group (n = 20) or plasma ablation group (n = 20). A thermometer was inserted into the shoulder joint during surgery, and the temperature, surgery, and diathermy times of radiofrequency ablation were measured continually.

No significant differences were found between the standard ablation group and plasma ablation group for maximum temperature (38.20°C and 39.38°C, respectively; P = .433), mean temperature (31.66°C and 30.64°C, respectively; P = .757), minimum temperature (21.83°C and 23.45°C, respectively; P = .584), and baseline temperature (28.49°C and 29.94°C, respectively; P = .379). Similarly, no significant differences were found for surgery time (74 and 75 minutes, respectively; P = .866) and diathermy time (10 minutes for both; P = .678). Seven patients registered transient high temperatures greater than 45°C.

There was no difference between plasma ablation and standard ablation in terms of intra-articular temperature in the joint and diathermy efficiency. Transient high intra-articular temperatures occurred in both groups.

ACTRN1261300056970 (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry).