Comparison Between 2 Types of Radiofrequency Ablation Systems in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND

Radiofrequency ablation is commonly used in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR). New technology devices incorporating a plasma bubble may generate lower intra-articular temperatures and be more efficient.

PURPOSE

To compare a plasma ablation device with a standard ablation device in arthroscopic RCR to determine which system is superior in terms of intra-articular heat generation and diathermy efficiency.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

This was a single-center randomized controlled trial. The inclusion criteria were adult patients undergoing primary RCR. Patients were randomized preoperatively to the standard ablation group (n = 20) or plasma ablation group (n = 20). A thermometer was inserted into the shoulder joint during surgery, and the temperature, surgery, and diathermy times of radiofrequency ablation were measured continually.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found between the standard ablation group and plasma ablation group for maximum temperature (38.20°C and 39.38°C, respectively;

CONCLUSION

There was no difference between plasma ablation and standard ablation in terms of intra-articular temperature in the joint and diathermy efficiency. Transient high intra-articular temperatures occurred in both groups.

REGISTRATION

ACTRN1261300056970 (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry).

Déclaration de conflit d'intérêts

The authors declared that there are no conflicts of interest in the authorship and publication of this contribution. AOSSM checks author disclosures against the Open Payments Database (OPD). AOSSM has not conducted an independent investigation on the OPD and disclaims any liability or responsibility relating thereto.