Survey on Preclinical Methods to Assess Collateral Thermal Damage to Tissues Caused by Surgical Devices

Abstract

Here we review the preclinical evaluation methodologies of thermal induced damage to tissues caused by surgical devices. Many innovative surgical devices based on thermal energy sources have been studied to offer less invasive treatment with fewer complications. Before these devices are used clinically, their safety must be validated using various methods to simulate the clinical situation with reasonable accuracy. We surveyed various preclinical studies and summarized methodologies to evaluate thermal induced damages. All the methodologies were categorized according to their invasiveness and measurement parameters (physical or biological parameters). In these studies, the damage was evaluated by one or more sub-assessments and attempted to clarify effective intensity and distribution of intervention to minimize the damage. For damage evaluation research, choice of techniques is extensive but decisions must be based on the nature of intervention.