RF ELECTRODES

Nitinol (Nickel-Titanium) and stainless steel are both commonly used materials for radiofrequency (RF) electrodes. The lifespan of an RF electrode is determined by several factors, including the brand, type, and thickness of the connecting wire, the frequency of use, the conditions under which it is used, and maybe most importantly how the RF Probe is cleaned.

In general, Nitinol is a more durable material than stainless steel, and it has the ability to retain its shape and structure even after repeated use. This is because Nitinol has a unique combination of high strength and elasticity, which makes it resistant to deformation and damage.

One of the problems that RF Generator manufacturers have in producing nitinol RF probes is that the connection between the nitinol and the metals in the wires expands at different rates when exposed to heat. This point where the different metals connect can eventually fracture the RF electrode. There has been more than one recall on nitinol electrodes because of this issue.

However, the lifespan of Nitinol RF probes can be affected by factors such as oxidation, corrosion, and biofouling. To minimize these effects, Nitinol electrodes are often coated with a protective layer or treated with a special process to enhance their resistance to degradation.

On the other hand, stainless steel electrodes are known for their corrosion resistance and biocompatibility, but they are less durable than Nitinol electrodes. Over time, stainless steel electrodes can become damaged and lose their conductivity, which can negatively impact their performance and lifespan.

In conclusion, Nitinol RF electrodes tend to have a longer lifespan than stainless steel RF electrodes, but the actual lifespan of an electrode depends on many factors and can vary greatly. It is important to consider the specific application when choosing between nitinol and stainless steel electrodes, as well as the specific requirements of the application, such as biocompatibility, electrical conductivity, and durability. In some cases, nitinol RF electrodes may be a better choice because of their superior properties, while in other cases, stainless steel electrodes may be the better choice due to their lower cost or ease of use.

Nitinol is a shape memory alloy, which is a type of metal that can return to its original shape after being deformed. This property is caused by the movement of atoms within the metal’s crystal structure. Nitinol is an alloy of nickel and titanium, and it is often used in medical devices such as stents and orthodontic wires, RF Electrodes as well as in aerospace and industrial applications.

Both Nitinol and stainless steel are commonly used in medical applications, but they have different properties that make them suitable for different types of devices and procedures.

Nitinol, also known as nickel titanium, is a shape memory alloy that can return to its original shape after being bent or deformed. This property makes it useful for devices such as stents, which are used to prop open blocked or narrowed blood vessels, and for orthodontic wires, which can be adjusted to reposition teeth. Nitinol is also bio-compatible, meaning it does not react with the body, which makes it safe for use in the body.

Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a strong and durable metal that is resistant to corrosion. It is commonly used for surgical instruments such as scalpels, forceps, and needle holders, as well as for implantable devices such as hip and knee replacements. Stainless steel is also bio-compatible and can be sterilized, which makes it easy to maintain and clean.

In summary, Nitinol is used for its shape memory properties while stainless steel is used for its strength, durability and resistance to corrosion.

I get this question a lot. The answer is yes RF probes can be repaired can sometimes. to answer many of you who have asked the question Yes, RF probes and RF electrodes are the same things. whether the radiofrequency ablation probe can be repaired depends on the brand and what is broken. Neurotherm electrodes are the easiest to repair, but Stryker, Halyard, Cosman Baylis, and others can be repaired as well. I recommend saving all of your broken electrodes and <a href="http://“>call us when you need a new RF probe. Our experts will work with you to get an electrode to you asap at a great price.

How to Sterilize reusable Neurotherm RF probes (RF electrodes).

Before Neurotherm reusable electrodes, Test Leads, and Stimulation Test Blocks are used they must be sterilized by autoclaving following to the instructions provided by the autoclave manufacturer’s recommended sterilization procedure.

If in doubt, the sterilizer or autoclave manufacturer should be consulted for a recommendation of loading instructions and drying times.

NOTE: Before sterilization, inspect the Neurotherm RF electrode for any signs of damage or corrosion. Do not use if such damage is noted.

The adapter cable is provided non-sterile. The adapter cable should always be cleaned before sterilization.

RF Electrode Sterilization

To clean the electrode, wipe or rinse the thermocouple electrode with tap water at 30-40°C (86-104°F) before cleaning. Submerse the electrode and protective tube in a lukewarm, blood-dissolving enzymatic solution. Remove gross matter, i.e. blood, mucous, and tissue from the product with a soft lint-free cloth. Using lukewarm tap water at 30-40°C (86-104°F) rinse the probe until the enzymatic solution is removed.

NOTE: Thermal washer disinfectors may be used on a standard cycle between 84° and 90° C for 1 minute.

Steam (Moist Heat). The quality of steam should be in accordance with the requirements of HTM2031 “Steam for Sterilization”. Wrapped (Porous Load) fractionated and pulse cycles.

Autoclave

For (Porous Load) fractionated and pulse cycles, sterilization temperature should be pre- 132°C (270°F) for a minimum of 4 minutes. Do not use a gravity system processing for wrapped instruments.

When sterilizing unwrapped RF electrodes. The temperature range in each case should be:- 1340 – 1370C for a minimum of 4 minutes.

Gravity displacement temperature should be 132°C for a minimum of 15 minutes.

Ensure that any RFA probe cable does not contact the metal housing of the autoclave or other metal instruments during the sterilization cycle, as this may reduce the effective life of the radiofrequency electrode.

RF needles (RF cannula) and disposable RF probes are supplied sterilized, double wrapped and for single-patient use only. It goes without saying, the disposable one-time radiofrequency probes and RF cannula can not be autoclaved or reused.

CAUTION: After sterilization but before each use, connect an electrode to the lesion generator, using the adapter cable, and ensure the readings of the temperature and impedance are within the normal range.

The Autoclave manufacturer should be consulted for a recommendation of loading instructions and drying times.

Sterilization equipment should have validated certification and performance qualification tests of their process cycles for efficient processing.

It is recommended that disposable Neurotherm radiofrequency electrodes (radiofrequency probes) should be used when possible, for added safety of the patient and members of the hospital staff. The downside to this is the cost of the disposable RF electrode.

Yes, to answer everyone who has asked, RF cannula and RF needles are the same thing. Both terms are correct. RF electrodes and RF probes are different from RF cannula or RF needles. RF Cannula or RF needles (whichever term you prefer) are placed on/over an RF probe – RF electrode. RF electrodes and RF probes are the same thing. They are what is plugged into an RF Generator. I hope that was clear. If you are still confused or if I just did not explain it well enough, please text or call me at 858-336-1377. I am also available by email. Just click here.

I am often asked about the different spellings of cannula that people see out there. If you are on the web it won’t be long before you see website editors using cannula, cannulae, and cannulas interchangeably and often incorrectly.  Cannula is the correct spelling for a single RF needle. Cannulae and Cannulas are the two plural forms of cannula. If anyone has seen another spelling out there let us know and we will add it to the list.