DBD (Dielectric Barrier Discharge) cold plasma therapy devices require careful parameter configuration and proper operating technique to achieve optimal treatment results and ensure a comfortable experience for the patient. Based on DGE product technical manuals, this guide systematically presents gas flow parameter settings, recommended treatment durations by wound type, standard operating procedures, and safety precautions for veterinary clinical reference.
1. Gas Flow Parameters
The therapy device uses helium as its working gas. The combination of helium regulator pressure and internal flow rate setting determines plasma jet intensity and coverage area. The table below is based on a 10L helium tank:
| Helium Regulator Pressure (MPa) | Internal Flow Setting | Helium Flow Rate (L/min) | Usage Duration (minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.1 | Level 1 | 6 | 245 |
| 0.1 | Level 2 | 8 | 185 |
| 0.2 | Level 1 | 10 | 147 |
| 0.2 | Level 2 | 13 | 114 |
Parameter Selection Principles
- Higher helium flow rates allow for lower internal intensity settings, resulting in gentler treatment.
- For sensitive treatment areas (e.g., around the eyes, mucous membranes, young animals), use higher flow rates, lower intensity, and a greater treatment distance.
- During treatment, the clinician should assess the patient's tolerance and use the highest acceptable intensity for optimal therapeutic effect.
- If the patient shows obvious signs of stress or discomfort, stop treatment immediately, reduce intensity, or increase the treatment distance.
- Using lower gas flow rates reduces helium consumption and increases the number of treatments per tank.
2. Recommended Treatment Duration
Different wound types and sizes require different treatment durations. The following table provides clinically recommended reference values:
| Wound Type | Classification | Recommended Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Sutured Wounds | Up to 5 cm in length | 30 seconds |
| 5–15 cm in length | 1–2 minutes | |
| Over 15 cm in length | 2–3 minutes | |
| Open Wounds | Small (approx. 1×1 cm) | 30 seconds |
| Medium (approx. 3×3 cm) | 1–2 minutes | |
| Large (approx. 5×5 cm) | 3–4 minutes |
3. Operating Guidelines
The following methods apply to most clinical scenarios and are recommended wherever conditions permit.
Standard Operating Procedure
- Press the foot pedal to activate the device and observe the helium plasma jet emitted from the treatment handpiece.
- Bring the plasma jet into contact with the skin. A bright spot should be visible on the skin surface.
- Key Point: The optimal treatment distance is achieved when the bright spot is located at approximately one-third of the visible plasma jet length. This contact point is called the treatment center point.
- The treatment center point must be kept in continuous motion to avoid prolonged local exposure that could cause a burning sensation.
- Maintain this distance and gently sweep the treatment center point across the affected area.
- Repeating the sweep 2–3 times completes one treatment session.
Suitable Wound Types
- Fresh wounds
- Sutured wounds: surgical incisions, cuts
- Non-scabbed ulcers
- Abrasions, bite wounds
Treating Large Irregular Wounds
For large, irregularly-shaped open wounds, use a zone-by-zone sweeping approach. Sequentially cover different areas of the wound with the treatment center point, ensuring uniform exposure across the entire wound surface while avoiding missed areas or over-treatment.
4. Contraindications & Safety
Do not direct the cold plasma jet directly onto any metal implant.
Precautions
- Confirm that no metal implants are exposed on the patient's body surface before treatment.
- Keep the treatment center point in continuous motion throughout the session — do not hold it in one spot.
- If the patient shows obvious signs of stress, stop treatment immediately, adjust parameters, and try again.
- Operators should wear protective eyewear.
- Keep the treatment handpiece clean and dry; regularly check that the gas outlet is unobstructed.