Which of the following is most accurate in describing coblation intracapsular tonsillectomy?
It utilizes a thin layer of ionized sodium to ablate tissues The newer methods of tonsillectomy include: a. Coblation b. Harmonic scapel c.Ligasure (Thermal Welding) d. Laser e. Intra-capsular methods Coblation Uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to ionize NaCI in a saline medium, then the energy of these ions (plasma) is used to break molecular tissue bonds * May also be used for direct hemostasis * RF energy is supposed to stay in the irrigation to minimize collateral heating * Temperatue is not supposed to exceed 70 C (cautery is routinely 200-400 C) * Most studies indicate less pain than electrocautery, some cite equivalent pain to cold knife * Intraoperative blood loss comparable to electrocautery * No electrical connection to patient * Very high cost compared to electrocautery or cold knife ($150-200/piece) * Operative times up to twice as long than electrocautery * Aggressive marketing campaign targeted to lay public
Electric energy is transferred to vibration energy
lt can only cut, and not coagulate
. lt creates significant thermal injury to tissues
lt utilizes a thin layer of ionized sodium to ablate tissues