New Radiofrequency Wand Enhances Access and Tissue Targeting in Hip Surgery

Surgeons may struggle to reach targeted tissues in constrained joint spaces, while fixed-angle wands may not meet hip-specific needs. Greater access and precise soft-tissue targeting could streamline complex procedures. A newly launched adjustable-angle radiofrequency wand is designed to improve joint access and resection efficiency, particularly in hip procedures.

Smith+Nephew has introduced the FLOW FLEXTEND COBLATION Wand for hip surgery, positioned as an advancement over fixed‑angle options. Built as an extension of the company’s FLOW~IQ technology, the wand is engineered to enhance joint access and enable precise tissue targeting in hard‑to‑reach hip, knee, and shoulder compartments. The device was developed by hip surgeons specifically for hip procedures to address limitations seen with repurposed knee wands.

The technology combines COBLATION energy delivery with FLOW~IQ control logic that automatically balances saline outflow and energy, allowing surgeons to favor precision or speed based on intraoperative need. A precision electrode with an adjustable‑angle tip is designed to improve and expand access to targeted tissues, while a shaft that can be straightened is intended to facilitate insertion and removal. A “set‑and‑forget” angle mechanism allows the chosen angle to be maintained without continual hand contact unless further adjustments are required.

Evidence cited with the launch indicates improved access versus HipVac and FLOW 50, as well as greater resection efficiency demonstrated ex vivo at default settings with 10 data points per device. The COBLATION platform underpinning the wand is described as clinically proven to improve patient outcomes compared with mechanical debridement in knee chondroplasty based on a 60‑patient dataset. Early experiences from first users have been characterized as encouraging, aligning with the device’s design goals for complex hip work.

“The articulation gives the FLOW FLEXTEND COBLATION Wand a significant advantage over - and a lot more versatility in the central compartment without capsular disruption than - any of the other instruments I have used before,” said Dr. Joshua D. Harris, Orthopedic Surgeon at Houston Methodist specializing in sports medicine and hip preservation.

“The FLOW FLEXTEND COBLATION Wand’s tip geometry - and the fact that it’s flexible - allows for a precise capsule-to-labrum recess and preservation of the capsule,” added Dr. Jovan Laskovski, Orthopaedic Surgeon at Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center.