Enhanced atmospheric pressure plasma jet setup for endoscopic applications

Based on a capacitively coupled plasma jet concept, an enhanced atmospheric pressure plasma jet setup for endoscopic applications is presented. Besides the favourable features of small dimension, flexibility and ability to operate in hollow bodies, new approaches for low patient leakage current, enhanced biological efficacy and reduced material erosion are subject of this work. It is found that a combination of neon feed gas, CO2 shielding gas and a current limited high voltage supply gives the best bactericidal results and, at the same time, reduces material erosion as well as patient leakage current.