Thermal Treatment of Musculoskeletal Tissues

Over the past ten years, the Comparative Orthopaedic Research Laboratory has focused significatnt time and effort on investigation of thermal energys effect on collagenous tissues. In particular, the laboratory has investigated the effect of thermal energy on redundant joint capsular tissue in order to stabilize the shoulder and knee. In addition, the laboratory has evaluated the effect of thermal energy on the treatment of ligamentous tissues such as the cranial cruciate ligament and medial collateral ligament. Current efforts have focused on thermally modifying articular cartilage to enhance its longevity in order to prevent the need for cartilage replacement and/or total knee arthroplasty.

 

Figure: Confocal microscopic images demonstrating mRFE TAC-S probe (Smith&Nephew) treated shoulder joint surface (top of each image) at 70C/40W (original x20). The green area indicate viable tissue, and the red area indicate dead tissue.