Radiofrequency energy: applications and basic science.

Interest in using radiofrequency energy devices in orthopedics has been growing recently. The basic science of this intervention is similar to that of laser energy application and involves the heating of tissue. Collagen responds characteristically to heat--it becomes denatured, and its configuration becomes disorganized. Thus, this application of heat can be used to shorten collagenous soft tissue. Radiofrequency energy can also be used at higher parameters for tissue ablation. Although early clinical trials have shown promising results for many applications, long-term study is needed.