Novel Device Delivers RF, HIFEM for Abdominal Contouring

MONDAY, May 2, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- A novel device delivering radiofrequency-based and high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) treatment results in subcutaneous fat reduction and an increase in muscle thickness in the abdominal area, according to a study published in the May issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Julene B. Samuels, M.D., a plastic surgeon in private practice in Louisville, Kentucky, and colleagues examined the efficacy of a novel device delivering synchronized radiofrequency and HIFEM treatment simultaneously for abdominal toning and fat reduction. Seventy-two individuals were randomly assigned into active and sham groups (48 and 24 participants, respectively) and received three treatments on the abdomen once a week. In the active group, the intensity was set to maximum tolerable level, while in the sham group, intensities were set to 5 percent. Changes in subcutaneous fat and rectus abdominis muscle thickness were examined using ultrasound images taken before treatment and at one, three, and six months after treatment.

The researchers found that at one month, ultrasound images of the active group showed a significant 20.5 percent reduction in adipose tissue thickness, whereas there was an increase of 21.5 percent in rectus abdominis muscle thickness. At three months, the results improved to 28.3 and 24.2 percent, respectively. In the active group, improvements were maintained at six months after treatment, while no significant changes were seen in the sham group. Treatments were comfortable; higher satisfaction with outcomes was seen in the active group.

"This innovative and novel technology, which combines high-intensity focused electromagnetic therapy with synchronized radiofrequency in a simultaneous application to the abdomen, improves results of single-modality treatment delivered separately," the authors write.

The authors are medical advisors for BTL Industries, Inc., the manufacturer of the device.

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