Coblation

Cause, clinical and ultrasound findings

The technique is used to treat tendinopathy, most often the rotator cuff, the epicondylitis insertions at the elbow and the plantar fascia. Coblation has been used for the Achilles and patellar tendon; however, tendon rupture is a substantial risk. The technique is regarded as an alternative to surgical debridement. It is intended to trigger a ‘controlled inflammatory process to initiate healing’. The probe delivers electrically conductive fluid (saline) to the tip of the catheter, and an applied current creates a charge layer of particles called a plasma layer. This breaks molecular bonds within the cells, effectively vapourising tissue in a very localised area.

Equipment and drugs

• Commercially available coblation wand and radiofrequency generator.

• The 4-cm wand has a tip diameter of 1 mm. Coblation provides vapourisation of the tissue within 1 or 2 mm of the tip.

  Syringe	Needle	Lidocaine 1%
  5 mL	21G Green	5 to 10 mL