Comparison of Ablation Performance between Octopus Multipurpose Electrode and Conventional Octopus Electrode

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Interventional Radiology
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat various medical conditions.
• Conventional electrodes have limitations in controlling ablation size and preventing collateral thermal damage.
• Novel electrode designs aim to improve RFA efficacy and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of Octopus multipurpose (MP) electrodes against conventional electrodes for RFA in porcine livers.
• To evaluate the impact of saline instillation and direct tissue temperature monitoring on RFA outcomes.
• To assess the potential for reduced thermal injury to adjacent organs with MP electrodes.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized 16 pigs for in vivo experiments involving RFA in porcine livers.
• Two experiments were conducted: one comparing saline instillation effects and another assessing thermal injury near the gallbladder and colon.
• Octopus MP electrodes and conventional electrodes were used, with RFA parameters and pathological outcomes meticulously recorded.

Main Results:

• Octopus MP electrodes produced significantly larger ablation volumes (15.7 cm³ vs. 12.5 cm³) and required more energy in the first experiment.
• In the second experiment, MP electrodes significantly reduced thermal injury to the gallbladder (2/12 vs. 10/11) and colon (1/12 vs. 10/11) compared to conventional electrodes.
• Total energy delivered near adjacent organs was substantially lower with MP electrodes.

Conclusions:

• Octopus MP electrodes demonstrate superior performance in RFA by achieving larger ablation zones.
• The use of MP electrodes significantly minimizes thermal injury to adjacent organs, enhancing procedural safety.
• These findings suggest that Octopus MP electrodes represent an advancement in RFA technology.