argon plasma coagulation


argon plasma coagulation

An electrosurgical method whereby argon gas is ionised by an electric current to create a noncontact, homogeneous "bridge" to target tissue for coagulation or ablation.

argon plasma coagulation

Abbreviation: APC
The destruction of tissues with heat generated by applying an electrical current to an argon plasma. The plasma distributes heat to a minimal depth so that only superficial structures are coagulated while deeper ones remain undisturbed. APC is used in several applications, e.g., in the destruction of some superficial cancers and in the treatment of some stenoses that have formed within normally hollow organs, such as the trachea. See also: coagulation