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Percutaneous intradiscal radio-frequency thermocoagulation. A cadaveric study
B Troussier1, J F Lebas, J P Chirossel
1Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital of Grenoble, France.
Spine
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Radio-frequency thermocoagulation effectively treats lumbar disc herniation by coagulating nucleus pulposus tissue. This minimally invasive technique shows promise for percutaneous lumbar disc herniation treatment.
Area of Science:
- Spinal Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Radio-frequency thermocoagulation utilizes an intradiscal bipolar electrode.
- The technique aims to decompress nerve roots by coagulating nucleus pulposus.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess the potential of radio-frequency lesion technique for percutaneous lumbar disc herniation treatment.
- Evaluate the effects of radio-frequency thermocoagulation on cadaveric disc material.
Main Methods:
- Experiments conducted on lumbar discs from 27 adult cadavers.
- Determined physical and thermal parameters of intradiscal radio-frequency thermocoagulation.
- Investigated macroscopic and histologic changes, measured surrounding tissue temperature, and performed CT/MRI scans.
Main Results:
- Radio-frequency thermocoagulation created a homogeneous lesion limited to the nucleus pulposus without necrosis.
- Endplates and vertebral bodies remained unaffected histologically.
- Surrounding tissue temperature increase did not exceed 3-4°C.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous intradiscal thermocoagulation using a bipolar electrode and radio-frequency current can destroy disc material.
- This technique offers a potential method for treating lumbar disc herniation.