Arthroscopic electrothermal surgery of the shoulder

In orthopedics, RF energy has been used to cut tissue targeted for removal, coagulate bleeding vessels (hemostasis), and to denervate pain sensing nerves and irritated tissue. Newer applications using temperature-controlled devices cause tissue contraction that is effective in treating shoulder instability. The tip of the RF electrode is arthroscopically positioned against the tissue to create the desired thermal effect. The goal of the RF energy application is to produce a well-defined area of tissue heating that undergoes shrinkage, denaturization, or ablation.