Innovations in cold plasma surgical technology are blazing the trail for a new age in electrosurgery technique. The latest devices are putting control back in the surgeon's hand, unveiling benefits that may not be so apparent at first glance.
Non-thermal plasma is neither liquid, gas, nor solid, but rather another state of matter entirely. Sounding more like something out of science fiction, the cold plasma device generates a short plasma beam at its tip. This beam, suitable for a variety of surgical functions, is capable of providing levels of control and precision heretofore unseen in the operating room. Depth of penetration can now be honed to the point where it is possible to remove tissues cell layer-by-cell layer.
It is this sort of precision and control that make cold plasma devices ideal for procedures involving endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts. But the possibilities extend beyond OB/GYN procedures, and include:
- ENT surgery
- Dermatology
- Skin cancer
- Cardiovascular Thoracic surgery
- Plastic surgery
- Advanced laparoscopic surgery
- GI surgery
- Colorectal surgery
- Urology
Unlike ordinary electrosurgical devices, cold plasma devices offer the opportunity to coagulate without the need for electrical charges to the patient. At the same time, tissue destruction and the inducing of cell death facilitates healing more quickly, while the creation of reactive oxygen molecules in the process reduces the opportunity for bacteria to proliferate. All this is accomplished with virtual no thermal spread to the patient.
Technological innovations often develop out of a combination of necessity and an eye toward increased efficiency. Cold plasma technology has its genesis in this principle, but carries with it benefits that extend beyond the obvious. Increased precision gives way to reduced procedural time. More control in the hand of the surgeon and less time spent treating post-op complications gives way toward fewer staff needed per case, not to mention improved patient outcomes, less post-op pain management, and quicker recovery times. All of this of course translates into overall reduced costs per case.
Leading the way in cold plasma technology is the Bovie Medical J-Plasma device. The sleek design of the hand piece provides both comfort and control, though it can also be used in conjunction with a foot pedal. Control is the keyword, with the surgeon's ability to alter the device's energy and flow rate independently. The piece features a retractable blade that can be extended for the ultimate in surgical accuracy, or completely retracted for coagulation and blunt dissection. Safety is another keyword, as increased precision and efficiency reduces the likelihood of unforeseen complications.
Today's surgeons would do well to embrace this technology, for with every advancement in the field, it seems modern surgical technique takes one giant leap further toward a new level of artistry.
All those interested in the latest advancements in cold plasma technology, or in Bovie Medical Corporation's J-Plasma device, can visit that company's website.
Image courtesy via: Kittikun Atsawintarangkul/freedigitalphotos.net
