Purpose: To compare the mechanical properties of tendon and capsule after radiofrequency (RF)
energy treatment. Type of Study: An in vitro study. Methods: RF energy was applied to ovine extensor tendon and human cadaveric glenohumeral capsule
varying in the treatment wattage and time (5, 10, or 20 W for 10 or 30 seconds). The
associated tissue length changes and dynamic and failure properties of the tissues
were investigated using a materials testing machine. Results: Length changes in the 2 tissues were comparable across the range of treatment settings
used with both increases in the treatment wattage and time increasing the amount of
tissue shrinkage observed. However, tendon showed greater changes in its mechanical
properties after RF treatment, with significant decreases in the failure properties
of the tissue as well as the dynamic and static stiffness. Conclusions: RF treatment shrinks collagenous tissues in a progressive manner correlated to the
treatment wattage. However, it has different effects on the mechanical properties
of tendon and capsule with the properties of tendinous tissues dramatically reduced.
Clinical Relevance: RF treatment has been shown to effect the mechanical properties of different collagenous
tissues differently; therefore, it must be used specifically and with caution around
areas of mixed tissue origin.
Key Words
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© 2005 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
