How Does Coblation Work?

Coblation is a unique technology that cuts and stops bleeding simultaneously using radiofrequency plasma technology. This technology is used in many ENT procedures including turbinate reduction, tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, respiratory papilloma excision, cryptolysis, etc.

The benefit of this technology over cauterization which does the same thing is that coblation occurs near room temperature opposed to cauterization which may produce temperatures exceeding 400 degrees celsius. Such high temperatures with cauterization can cause thermal damage to surrounding normal tissue leading to prolonged healing and swelling.

Watch a video of coblation being used for tonsillectomy and turbinate reduction.

Here's a video I shot using coblation on a piece of chicken to illustrate closely what is happening.