In vivo electromechanical reshaping of ear cartilage in a rabbit model: A minimally invasive approach for otoplasty
Year: 2013
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: To report the first successful study to date of in vivo electromechanical reshaping of ear cartilage in a rabbit model. Methods: Ears of New Zealand white rabbits were reshaped using percutaneous needle electrode electromechanical reshaping (5 V for 4 minutes) and were then bolstered for 4 weeks. Ten ears were treated, with 2 undergoing sham procedures and serving as controls. The treatment was performed using a platinum array of electrodes consisting of 4 parallel rows of needles inserted across the region of flexures in the ear. After 4 weeks, the animals were killed, and the ears were photographed and sectioned for conventional light microscopy and confocal microscopy (live-dead fluorescent assays). Results: Significant shape change was noted in all the treated ears (mean, 102.4̊ range, 87̊-122̊). Control ears showed minimal shape retention (mean, 14.5̊; range, 4̊- 25̊). Epidermis and adnexal structures were preserved in reshaped ears, and neochondrogenesis was noted in all the specimens. Confocal microscopy demonstrated a localized zone of nonviable chondrocytes (<2.0 mm in diameter) surrounding needle sites in all the treated ears. Conclusions: Electromechanical reshaping can alter the shape of the rabbit auricle, providing good creation and retention of shape, with limited skin and cartilage injury. Needle electrode electromechanical reshaping is a viable technique for minimally invasive tissue reshaping, with potential applications in otoplasty, septoplasty, and rhinoplasty. Further studies to refine dosimetry parameters will be required before clinical trials. ©2013 American Medical Association.
Authors: Oliaei, Sepehr, Manuel, Cyrus, Karam, Badran, Hussain, Syed F, Hamamoto, Ashley, Protsenko, Dmitriy E, Wong, Brian JF
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7075689754