The loop electrode: in vitro evaluation of a device for ultrasound-guided interstitial tissue ablation using...

I developed and tested in vitro a device for ultrasound-guided monopolar radiofrequency (RF) electrosurgical interstitial tissue ablation.

The current was applied to an electrode with a distal loop form (radius = 1 cm). The superelastic properties of the electrode allowed cannula introduction in the experimental medium (calf liver) before subsequent rotation of the electrosurgical cutting electrode, resulting in cutting off and isolation of a spherical lesion interstitially. The optimal setting of the RF unit and the optimal cutting speed were evaluated. Under ultrasonographic guidance and monitoring, approximately 150 lesions were produced with different loop designs and sizes. The gross appearance was evaluated and correlated to ultrasonography.

An output effect of 200 W was optimal for resection and cutting with the loop electrode. An ellipsoid loop configuration could produce an almost spherical lesion with a diameter of 2.0 cm interstitially. Ultrasonography could guide the introduction of the loop electrode into tissue and visualize the upper part of the lesion.

The loop electrode is a technique for percutaneous ultrasonographically guided tissue ablation. It was proved to be efficient in vitro by producing 2-cm liver lesions.