Background

Argon Plasma Coagulation (APC) is a medical procedure used in endoscopy and surgery for coagulation and hemostasis.

It uses argon gas for non-contact monopolar electrical current tissue treatment. APC emerged in the 1990s as an advanced tissue management tool.

It is Designed for safer, versatile, and precise tissue coagulation methods.

Argon gas is ionized with electric current to form plasma that conducts energy to tissue without contact.

It minimized contact to reduce mechanical trauma and risk of tissue injury.

The energy is transmitted to tissue through ionized argon gas that reduce trauma.

Indications

Gastroenterology

Pulmonology

Surgical Oncology

Dermatology

Urology

Gynecology

Contraindications

Presence of active gas embolism risk

Suspected/Confirmed perforation

Proximity to major blood vessels

Uncontrolled coagulopathy

Severe pulmonary conditions

Proximity to sensitive structures

Extensive necrotic tissue

Outcomes

Durable hemostasis with low recurrence rates occurs when underlying causes are addressed and malignant obstructions palliated.

Patients with strictures experienced significant symptom relief from treatment.

APC minimizes perforation risks and tissue damage versus alternative methods.

Clinical benefits observed in vascular malformations and radiation damage.

Equipment required

APC Generator

Argon Gas Source

APC Probe

Visualization System

Gas Flow Controller

Suction System

Patient Preparation

It includes medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests as part of patient preparation.

Patient must fast for 6 to 8 hours before GI procedures.

Informed Consent:

Explain the procedure’s purpose, risks, and potential complications clearly to the patient or guardians.

Patient Positioning

Position patient according to anatomical treatment site.

Technique

For tissue targeting:

Insert the APC probe via the endoscope’s working channel and position the tip 2 to 10 mm from the target tissue for clear visualization.

Gas Flow and Power Settings: Adjust parameters based on the lesion type and location.

Safety Measures: Avoid prolonged exposure to a single site and ensure proper suction to manage smoke and debris.

For energy application:

Activate the APC system for ionized argon plasma delivery.

Use short bursts and control the probe sweep for uniform lesion coagulation or ablation.

Argon plasma coagulation

Complications

Post-Procedure Pain

Minor Bleeding

Smoke Inhalation

Perforation

Gas Embolism

Deep Tissue Burns

Stricture Formation

References

Argon plasma coagulation – PMC

References

Argon plasma coagulation – PMC