Lipolysis of Visceral Reserve Fat Using Tecar Therapy: Anthropometric, Biochemical and NMR Imaging Study.

Radiofrequency (RF) is an inexpensive, virtually side-effect-free, well-tolerated method that reduces belly fat. RF is a form of high-frequency electromagnetic energy that works by heating tissues (Tecar Therapy). Its action in deeper tissues (subcutaneous layer) aims to increase cellular metabolism. When applied to tissues, RF generates oscillating magnetic fields that move electrically charged particles, producing heat in the tissues, and the amount of heat produced depends on the resistance (bioimpedance) of the target tissue. Electrical energy is converted into thermal energy. There is evidence of a transient RF effect on autonomic homeostasis with no known negative effects. This autonomic response to RF is reflected in a thermoregulatory vasomotor mechanism, in changes in chemoreceptor activity, and even in fluctuations in the renin-angiotensin system, responses related to the control of energy metabolism. The elevation of tissue temperature appears to be sufficient to activate the sympathetic branch of the Autonomic Nervous System, leading to the release of catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline), which are the trigger to activate lipolysis. Lipolysis is the reversible biochemical process where triglyceride catabolism is stored. This process culminates in the generation of non-esterified fatty acids and glycerol. Fatty acids released into the bloodstream can be used as a substrate to produce energy.

Ex vivo human skin cultures after completion of the RF treatment series showed a significant effect on subcutaneous adipocytes. Adipocyte cells were observed to have altered morphology and increased expression of the apoptosis marker, APAF-1, suggesting that induced apoptosis is the mechanism of action. Adipocyte apoptosis results in the release of triglycerides from disintegrated cell membranes, but in a delayed and gradual manner, allowing for slow and safe elimination through the interstitial space, and subsequent lipid transport systems, lymphatic systems, and other metabolic functions. There was no evidence of necrosis or inflammatory changes observed in adipocytes after treatments with this new RF device.

Obesity causes an increase in adipose tissue and an increased infiltration of inflammatory cells into that tissue with a predominance of pro-inflammatory cytokines resulting in the development of a chronic low-intensity inflammatory state.

Adipocytolysis is a term used to describe the phenomena caused by non-surgical techniques (cytolytic methods) for the reduction of localized fat, in which lipids could be broken or solubilized through the partial or total rupture of adipocytes, destroying their plasma membrane.

Frequencies around 1 MHz are used, which are the ones that act most effectively on the cell, but with a high power, adjustable temperature and a treatment area greater than 200 cm2, which allows it to mechanically destroy the adipose cells, with greater effectiveness in the subcutaneous adipose tissue without damaging the skin. blood, vessels, nerves, or connective tissues. Lipids are gradually eliminated through the lymphatic system, reducing tissue volume.