Radiofrequency Energy-Induced Heating of Bovine Articular Cartilage Using a Bipolar Radiofrequency Electrode

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Abstract
Radiofrequency energy is used for thermal-assisted chondroplasty to treat grade II and III chondromalacia with the lowest possible energy setting that achieves the desired result. The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the temperature changes associated with the use of radiofrequency energy delivered at different settings to bovine articular cartilage using a bipolar electrode. Cartilage samples were placed in a temperature-controlled (37°C) saline bath for the delivery of radiofrequency energy. A fluoroptic thermometry probe was positioned to record the temperatures at the electrode-tissue interface. The electrode was activated for 2 seconds at settings of V2—120, V2—60, V2—40, and V2—20 in two modes: ablation and desiccation. Additionally, the cartilage samples were visually inspected to determine changes in appearance. The highest average temperatures were as follows: ablation mode, 78.5°C (V2—120), 62.6°C (V2—60), 58.1°C (V2—40), and 54.1°C (V2—20); desiccation mode, 71.8°C (V2—120), 61.4°C (V2—60), 57.7°C (V2—40), and 53.3°C (V2—20). There were statistically significant increases in temperatures associated with each of the respective settings. There were no substantial visual changes produced by the V2—20 settings, while the other settings produced a gradation of effects. These data provide information to help guide the use of a bipolar radiofrequency electrode and electrosurgical system for thermal-assisted chondroplasty.