Three types of ablations standard radiofrequency ablation (RFA), BETA, and RP-BEA) were tested in a pig liver model. In BETA and RP-BEA, 9 V of direct current were provided for 10 min, after which the rf generator were switched on and both electrical circuits allowed to run concurrently. In all three setups, ablations were continued until ¡°roll-off.?The size of ablation was measured and compared with each other.
The duration of ablation was significantly shorted in RP-BEA compared with standard RFA and BETA (48 s verus 148 s and 84 s, respectively, P?=?0.004). The sizes of ablations in RP-BEA were also significantly smaller compared with standard RFA and BETA-skin.
RP-BEA caused tissue desiccation resulting in a shorter duration of ablation and smaller ablations. Therefore, the theory that BETA increases ablation size due to the effects of increased tissue hydration around the rf electrode is correct.