Objectives: This study introduces an initial evaluation of
a novel High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM)
technology. The primary goal is to quantify any
effects the treatments may have on abdominal tissues, as
well as to establish hypotheses for future research of this
technology.
Materials / method: Twenty-two patients received four abdominal
treatments using the EMSCULPT device (BTL Industries
Inc., Boston, MA). Anthropometric evaluations were
recorded and digital photographs were taken at baseline,
at 2 months, and at 6 months post-treatments. The MRI
without contrast determined by verterbras T12 and S1
(FIESTA and FSPRG sequences) was used to measure
dimensions in coronal cross-sectional images of abdominal
muscle and fatty tissues, in order to assess any anatomical
changes induced by the application.
Results: Analysis of the same MRI slices verified by
tissue artifacts showed a statistically significant (all
P<0.0001) average 18.6% reduction of adipose
thickness, 15.4% increase in rectus abdominis muscle
thickness, and 10.4% reduction in rectus abdominus
separation (diastasis recti) as measured from the medial
border of the muscle 2 months post-treatment. More
significant improvements were observed in patients with
BMI 18.5–24.9 (classified as “normal”). MRI data from
6-month follow-up suggest the changes can be preserved
in longer term. Tape measurements showed on average
3.8 cm subumbilical.
Conclusion: MRI, considered as a highly precise diagnostic
method, revealed simultaneous muscle growth, fat
reduction and reduced abdominal separation at 2 months
and at 6 months post treatments, unrelated with dieting.
Further research should investigate the exact physiological
processes which stand behind the tissue changes observed
in this study.
Divulgação de informações
Você recebeu algum patrocínio para sua pesquisa neste tema?
Sim
Por favor indique a entidade (pessoa ou empresa): BTL provided equipment and research support
Você recebeu algum tipo de honorário, pagamento ou outra forma de compensação por seu trabalho neste estudo?
Não
Por favor indique a entidade (pessoa ou empresa): BTL provided pay
Você possui relação financeira com alguma entidade que possa competir com os medicamentos, materiais ou instrumentos abordados no seu estudo?
Não
Você detém ou pediu a registro de patente para algum dos instrumentos, medicamentos ou materiais abordados no seu estudo?
Não
Este trabalho não recebeu nenhum patrocínio direto ou indireto. O mesmo está sob a própria responsabilidade do seu autor.