J-Plasma offers a cold plasma energy alternative to electrosurgery units as well as to lasers and ultrasonic scalpels. Here is an overview covering the different surgical energies and how they compare to J-Plasma.
Electrosurgery
Electrosurgery is used in one of two modes. The monopolar mode can be used to coagulate, ablate or cut away tissue and requires a return pad for the electrical current. The bipolar mode coagulates tissue and stops bleeding using two electrodes side by side as demonstrated by a pair of forceps on either side of the target tissue. The two modes work in much the same way employing an electrical flow to and through the tissues to achieve the desired tissue effect. Electrosurgery can cause carbonization of tissue creating smoke and eschar. . J-Plasma’s energy is concentrated in the tip of the stylus and does not require a return pad. This energy concentration gives the surgeon greater control in and over the area on which the procedure is being performed.
Laser
The effect and effectiveness of a laser depends on specific wavelengths or colors of light that interact with target tissue. The laser can be negatively affected by the light wavelength response of the tissue itself, making it less effective in some cases than others. Lasers must be very accurately controlled regarding distance to target to get a consistent tissue effect. For J-Plasma, neither tissue color nor distance is a factor as the plasma stream is limited to a length of 15 mm. Lasers can also cause damage to the eyes and protective eye wear as well as protective screens must be used during procedures. No such protective measures are necessary with J-Plasma. Lasers typically need advanced scheduling to have qualified personnel on hand to use the device. J-Plasma is a self-contained unit available for use at any moment’s notice be it the middle of the night or any day of the week.
Ultrasonic
The ultrasonic, or harmonic, scalpel uses ultrasonic technology to produce a high frequency vibration to create friction in order to cut. It cuts and coagulates at the same time. However, it cannot perform coagulation without cutting. In addition the jaws of these devices stay very hot post use due to the high amount of friction created. J-Plasma offers pinpoint accuracy when its blade is extended for delicate incisions. When the blade is retracted small areas may be spot coagulated as contrasted to the very precise areas affected by the blade application. J-Plasma can perform either function as required with the use of this single device and can easily switch back and forth as the procedure is being performed.
J-Plasma Overview
J-Plasma offers all functions within one convenient device. It comes with a standard handpiece for open surgeries and an extended wand for laparoscopic procedures. It can be used during procedures in which the possibility of excessive bleeding exists to coagulate small blood vessels as well as where tissue dissection is desired. It also offers the unique ability to push blood and other fluids aside to conveniently expose underlying tissue. J-Plasma offers a retractable surgical steel blade at a moment's notice if needed. None of the other modalities have this feature. Because of its flexibility and adaptability, J-Plasma offers a very affordable option as it allows surgeon and surgeries to standardize to a single unit as opposed to having several. J-Plasma also saves on training and/or hiring staff adept on the operation of multiple technologies.
Each energy source offers its own benefits for isolated or specific procedures. However, J-Plasma offers benefits for all procedures in a single convenient device.
