Intestinal Tissue Fusion Based on Radiofrequency Energy / 医用生物力学

ABSTRACT

Objective The ileum of porcine intestines with radiofrequency (RF) energy was fused through a novel linkage-type pressure controlled electrode, so as to verify feasibility and security of intestinal reconstruction in the RF energy tissue fusion technology. Methods Fresh porcine intestines were fixed on negative electrode in the order of ‘mucosa-serosa’, and then different compressive pressures （497，796，995，1 194，1 492 kPa）and RF energy were applied to the tissues through positive electrode of pressure cone to complete intestinal anastomosis. Biomechanical properties of the fused area were studied by tensile strength and bursting pressure test, and the thermal diffusion and tissue microstructure also studied. ResultsThe anastomotic tensile strength and bursting pressure could reach （8.73±1.11） N and （8.29±0.41） kPa, respectively, when the energy output power, pressure and welding time were 160 W, 995 kPa and 13 s, respectively, and an intact microstructure with little free collagen in the fused area could be observed. Conclusions The technology of RF energy-based tissue fusion could accomplish fast and stable intestinal tract reconstruction, showing great potential in clinical application. It is of great significance to shorten the operation time, simplify the operation process and improve the operation quality.