Endobronchial Electrocautery

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Electrocautery using high-frequency current is a relatively new technique in the tracheobronchial field for the destruction of tumor or inflammatory tissues. High-frequency surgery uses the thermal effect of the electric current, avoiding the electrolytic and capacitance effects. Soft coagulation (white coagulation) is induced by slow heating up to 70 to 100°C, causing tissue vaporization. This procedure can be done using a rigid or a flexible bronchoscope. Unipolar electrodes are currently used rather than bipolar probes. Strict rules of isolation must be applied concerning patient, endoscopist, and equipment. High-frequency electrocautery has an immediate effect, somewhat “laserlike.” It's a simple technique for rapid palliation and immediate tumor debulking in patients with tracheobronchial lesions. The equipment is relatively cheap, but the use of specially insulated fiberoptic bronchoscopes is highly recommended. Morbidity is low, but further clinical and experimental studies are needed to evaluate the complication rate. High-frequency electrocautery could be very useful, particularly in countries where treatment by means of laser is not available because of the prohibitive cost.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: