Bioinspired rapid self-replenishing liquid-infused surfaces for stable anti-adhesion of electrosurgical electrodes

Abstract

Soft tissue adhesion on electrosurgical electrodes has been a significant concern in minimally invasive surgery. The liquid-infused surface (LIS) can effectively reduce the tissue adhesion on electrodes by constructing a lubricating interface. However, the tissue-cutting process involves a complex contact friction process and high temperature, resulting in lubricant depletion of LIS. Inspired by the rapid self-replenishment of liquid film on the peristome surface of Nepenthes, here, a novel self-replenishing liquid-infused surface (SR-LIS) is fabricated by the laser direct structuring method. SR-LIS consists of first-level microgrooves and second-level microcavities. The microcavities store lubricant for a long time and enhance the capillary force of microgrooves. The rapid self-replenishing lubricant of SR-LIS ensures that the cutting interface is composed of soft tissue-lubricant-steel, resulting in stable anti-adhesion. Soft tissue cutting experiments show that the SR-LIS could stably reduce tissue adhesion and tissue damage compared to LIS. The underlying mechanism is discussed, and further experiments conclude that the self-replenishing lubricant has the double action of lubrication and cooling. This novel structural design, preparation method, and the resulting surfaces have essential applications in electrosurgical electrodes and promote the development of slippery surfaces in various industries.