Evaluation of the Use of Monopolar Low-Temperature Plasma Electrode in Lumbar Spinal Canal Expansion, Decompression, Bone Grafting, and Fusion Internal Fixation Surgery

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the therapeutic effects of using a monopolar low-temperature plasma electrode and a high-frequency electrotome during lumbar spinal canal expansion, decompression, bone grafting, and fusion internal fixation surgery. The study also investigates the impact of these techniques on inflammatory indicators and quality of life in patients. Methods: A total of 100 patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis treated between June (January) 2022 and July (March) 2023 were selected for this study. They were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, with 50 cases in each group. Both groups underwent lumbar spinal canal expansion, decompression, bone grafting, and fusion internal fixation surgery. The control group used a high-frequency electrotome during surgery, while the observation group used a monopolar low-temperature plasma electrode. Surgical indicators (operation time, intraoperative blood loss), inflammatory indicators, pain levels, and quality of life were compared between the two groups. Results: The operation time in the observation group was shorter than that in the control group (P<0.05). Postoperative levels of TNF-α and CRP were lower in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). The observation group had lower VAS scores and higher SF-36 scores compared to the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The use of a monopolar low-temperature plasma electrode in lumbar spinal canal expansion, decompression, bone grafting, and fusion internal fixation surgery yields positive therapeutic outcomes. It effectively reduces operation time, alleviates patient's inflammatory responses and pain levels, aids in postoperative recovery, and enhances quality of life. These results suggest the potential for wider adoption.