The term “Coblation” is derived from “Controlled ablation”. Coblation technology — a controlled, non-heat driven process — uses radiofrequency energy to excite the electrolytes in a saline solution, creating energized ionized particles in a plasma. The ions then bombard tissue in their path, causing molecular bonds to simply break apart and tissue to dissolve. This process is possible at very low temperatures because any heat generated is consumed by the ionization process. The result is precise volumetric removal of target tissue with minimal thermal peripheral damage.
COBLATION-BASED DEVICES | CONVENTIONAL ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICES | |
TEMPERATURES | 40°C to 70°C | More than 400°C |
THERMAL PENETRATION | Minimal | Deep |
EFFECTS ON TARGET TISSUE | Gentle Removal & Dissolution | Rapid heating, charring & burning |
EFFECTS ON SURROUNDING TISSUES | Minimal | Inadvertent charring or burning of tissue |
Coblation can be used for many surgeries. Chief surgeries in ENT field in which the Coblation can be used are:
1. Adenoidectomy and Tonsillectomy.
2. Haemangioma of tongue.
3. Nasal turbinate reduction.
4. Surgeries for correction of Sleep Apnoea like Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UVPP) and Volumetric Reduction of Tongue Base.
5. Tumour De-bulking.