Electromechanical reshaping (EMR) of cartilage is a promising noninvasive technique with potential for broad
application in reconstructive surgery. EMR involves applying direct current electrical fields to localized stress regions
and initiating a series of oxidation-reduction reactions, thus effecting a shape change. Previous EMR studies have
focused on macroscopic structural measurements of the shape change effect or monitoring of electrical current flow.
Only limited investigation of structural changes in the tissue at the histologic level have been performed, and not in real
time. This study is the first to use optical coherence tomography (OCT) to examine structural changes in cartilage during
EMR. Two platinum needle electrodes were inserted into fixed rectangular rabbit nasal septal cartilage specimens. The
spectral domain OCT probe was then positioned above the section of cartilage in which the anode needle was inserted. A
constant voltage of 6V was applied for 3 minutes, and images were obtained (8 frames/second). OCT was also performed
in specimens undergoing dehydration under ambient conditions and during pH changes produced by the addition of HCl,
as both processes accompany EMR. The OCT data identified distinct findings among the three conditions, suggesting
that EMR causes a much greater degree of reshaping on a molecular level than dehydration or a change in pH alone.
OCT provides a means to gauge structural changes in the tissue matrix during EMR. The application of OCT to image
the EMR process will add to our understanding of the mechanisms of action involved and potentially facilitate
optimization of this process.
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