Deletion of adipocytes induced by a novel device simultaneously delivering synchronized radiofrequency and hifem: Human histological study
David J. Goldberg
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency (RF) is commonly recognized treatment option for fat reduction, utilizing heat-induced adipocyte deletion. HIFEM treatment has been proven to be an effective tool for body shaping. OBJECTIVES: To document the structural changes in human subcutaneous tissue induced by the combination of RF treatment with the HIFEM procedure. METHODS: ) served as a control. Punch biopsies were collected at baseline, 1-week, and 1-month post-treatment. Samples were sliced and stained with H&E. Waist circumference, digital photographs, satisfaction, and therapy comfort were assessed. Subjects were monitored for any adverse event, and fat temperatures were measured. RESULTS: Baseline samples showed a healthy appearance of adipocytes, composed of round-shaped unilocular cells of uniform size. At follow-up, treated adipocytes demonstrated nuclear and shape changes with consequent fat reduction. Adipocytes were found to be flattened/shrunken and of smaller size (-33.5% at 1 week; -31.7% at 1-month) along with occasional ruptures of the cytoplasmic membrane. In contrast to baseline, pyknotic nuclei with condensed nuclear chromatin were seen at 1-week and 1-month post-treatment. The control samples showed no treatment-related changes. Waist circumference decreased by an average of 2.20 cm in the treated patients. No adverse events were observed. The fat temperature reached 42-45°C, during treatment; the therapy was comfortable with high patient satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest the efficacy and safety of the therapy combining RF and HIFEM. The adipocyte deletion and shrinkage resulted in overall reduction of fat tissue.