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Optimal design and experimental study of Mg alloy electrodes for tissue welding

Juxiao Wang, Lin Mao, Weiwei Fan, Chengli Song


Shanghai Institute for Minimally Invasive Therapy, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China.


Address correspondence to: Lin Mao, Shanghai Institute for Minimally Invasive Therapy, School of Health Science and Engineering, NO.516 Jungong Road, Shanghai 200093, China. Tel: +86-21-55572159. E-mail: linmao@usst.edu.cn.


DOI:https://doi.org/10.61189/392182sdzooq


Received December 31, 2024; Accepted February 19, 2025; Published March 31, 2025


Highlights

●Three types of circular electrodes with varying thicknesses were designed to achieve weight reduction, accompanied by support structures for intestinal tissue on both sides.

●The mechanical properties of the three electrode configurations were systematically compared to determine the optimal thickness for welding.

●In vitro tissue experiments successfully welded the tissue, identifying the optimal welding parameters.

Abstract

Objective: To investigate electrode weight reduction through structural modifications, focusing on variations in the thickness of circular electrodes to meet mechanical requirements. Additionally, optimal welding parameters were identified via experimental methods. Methods: Three electrode thicknesses were designed: 0.2 mm (T1), 0.3 mm (T2), and 0.4 mm (T3). The finite element method was used to analyze the stress, strain, and thermal effects on the surrounding tissue. In vitro tissue experiments assessed the mechanical strength of the anastomosis by measuring tear force and rupture pressure. Results: Among the three designs, the T3 electrode exhibited the lowest strain (1.2%) and stress (122.26 MPa). Thermal simulations showed maximum tissue damage of 53.3% and minimum damage of 48.6%. The maximum tear force (9.87±0.83 N) and rupture pressure (222.88±13.48 mmHg) were achieved with a compression force of 20 N, welding power of 160 W, and welding time of 8 seconds. Conclusion: T3 electrode demonstrated superior mechanical performance in the finite element analysis and successfully completed in vitro welding while minimizing electrode weight. Optimal welding parameters were identified.

Keywords: Radiofrequency tissue welding, electrode structure, finite element simulation, anastomosis strength

Wang JX, Mao L, Fan WW, Song CL. Prog in Med Devices 2025 Mar;3(1): 12-20. doi: 10.61189/392182sdzooq

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