Novel anti-adhesion Al2O3-TiN ceramic surgical electrodes with low thermal damage

High-frequency electrodes, renowned for their superior cutting and coagulation capabilities, are a staple device in surgical procedures. Nonetheless, the challenges of soft-tissue adhesion and the potential for thermal damage during surgery remain significant and cannot be overlooked. In this study, Al 2 O 3 -TiN ceramic electrodes have been successfully fabricated to address the challenges of tissue thermal damage and adhesion that are encountered during surgical procedures. These electrodes are engineered to alleviate the aforementioned issues, enhancing the safety and efficacy of surgical interventions . The incorporation of TiN into Al 2 O 3 ceramics confers electrical conductivity upon the material, yet it ensures that this conductivity remains below that of the 316 stainless steel electrodes. This strategic modification leads to a substantial decrease in intraoperative contact temperature at the electrode-tissue interface, with a maximum reduction of 24.7 °C compared to 316 stainless steel electrodes, thereby diminishing the incidence of thermal tissue damage. Meanwhile, the enhanced hydrophobicity of the ceramic electrode surface significantly diminishes tissue adhesion during surgical procedures, with a maximum reduction of 50 % in weight gain before and after cutting compared to 316 stainless steel electrodes, thereby mitigating the risk of tissue tearing. The present investigation introduces an innovative approach to the fabrication of high-frequency surgical electrodes, holding significant promise for translation into clinical practice.