摘要 |
Systems and methods are provided for treating tissue within a patient's spine, such as laminectomy/discectomy procedures for treating herniated disks, posterior lumbosacral and cervical spine fusions and the like. An electrosurgical probe includes one or more electrode terminal(s) and a return electrode coupled to a high frequency voltage supply. Electrically conductive fluid, such as isotonic saline, is delivered to the electrode terminal, and a high frequency voltage difference is applied between the electrode terminal and the return electrode to treat tissue within the spine. The isotonic saline provides a current flow path between the electrode terminal and the return electrode, and it allows for a new mechanism for ablation or molecular dissociation of tissue within the spine.
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