Over the last couple years, the use of cold plasma in surgical devices has boomed. Until just a few years ago, plasma torches were strictly used in manufacturing to cut metals to precise forms and dimensions. Recently, however, companies that develop medical equipment have been able to harness plasma for other uses that open up new doors in surgical innovation.
What is plasma? No, we're not talking about the blood component, but instead something more akin to what you might find in that flat-screen television set on your wall. This type of plasma is in fact the fourth fundamental state of matter, along with solids, liquids and gases. It is created by streaming a pressurized inert gas, such as argon or helium, over a uniquely designed blade which energizes the gas. Of course the term "cold" is a relative term. The heat from the reaction between the plasma blade and the tissues it contacts dissipates very quickly, making it perfect for use on living tissue.
In short, cold plasma when properly focused produces a cutting tool with a precision at least equal to that of a metal scalpel. Not only is the precision better, but the plasma beam coagulates the incision as it cuts. All together, cold plasma allows for more precise cuts, less bleeding during an operation, smaller surgical sites and less invasiveness.
It is also an effective weapon against infection. Not only does a smaller surgery site and more precise cuts limit the vector by which infection can take hold, but plasma has been shown to have other types of therapeutic effects. There is also evidence that plasma used in this fashion kills certain types of microbes. The staphylococcus virus has also been effectively neutralized by cold plasma, increasing optimism about the procedure.
Emerging evidence also suggests that cold plasma may be effective against cancer as well. Recent studies show that plasma applied to certain areas of the body can eradicate cancer cells in the body.
At the forefront of the cold plasma movement is Bovie Medical and their J-Plasma innovation. J-Plasma has taken the industry by storm, as evidenced by some of the awards the new development has been bringing home. Now some important voices in the surgical products sector are taking notice of this innovative technology.
For example, in 2014, Excellence in Surgical Products named J-Plasma to third place in the MIS (Minimal Invasive Surgery) Products category. This is no small feat. Surgical Products is one the most important voices in the field, consistently staying on the forefront of the latest surgical procedures, surgical technology and infection control techniques. The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS), well known for their pursuit of the highest standards in laparoscopic, endoscopic and minimally invasive surgery practices, agreed with Surgical Products, naming the J-Plasma technology 2014's Innovation of the Year.
Excellence in medical field technology is nothing new for Bovie Medical, which is a leader in the production of medical devices. J-Plasma is truly a groundbreaking development, and another in a long line of devices from Bovie Medical designed to make healthcare easier.
For more information on our full line of medical equipment and supplies, contact us today. Easy single push button operation, a retractable blade and controlled coagulation will lead to J-Plasma remaining at the top of the heap when it comes to cold plasma.
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