Comprehensive Thermoregulation for the Purpose of Skin Tightening Using a Novel Radiofrequency Treatment Device: A Preliminary Report

Background: Radiofrequency-induced heating of dermal and subdermal tissue promotes skin contracture; however, the temperature threshold for inducing an epidermal burn is lower than the therapeutic temperature thresholds required for collagen remodeling, and therefore, there is the possibility of epidermal burn. Herein, we evaluate a radiofrequency treatment that provides novel real-time subdermal and epidermal temperature monitoring. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 18 subjects undergoing thermistor-controlled subdermal skin tightening via percutaneous radiofrequency was conducted. During the treatment, epidermal temperature was concurrently monitored by a handheld infrared laser thermometer and a forward looking infrared camera system and peak temperatures readings were reported and evaluated. Results: Mean temperatures of 43.6 and 38.2 degrees C were reported for the infrared camera and infrared thermometer. The Bland-Altman plot analysis reported a bias of 5.38 degrees C and 95% limits of agreement between 0.60 and 10.15 degrees C. Additionally, the mean difference or bias of 5.38 degrees C was statistically significant (P<0.0001). Conclusion: Our preliminary data supports a superior form of thermoregulation for the purposes of skin tightening that integrates continuous subsurface and epidermal temperature monitoring.