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Harmonic Scalpel for Tonsillectomy
Author(s) -
Wiatrak Brian J.,
Willging J. Paul
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1002/lary.5541121406
Subject(s) - harmonic scalpel , tonsillectomy , medicine , blood loss , surgery , dissection (medical) , postoperative pain , anesthesia
Objective To describe the Harmonic scalpel and review recent studies comparing its use in tonsillectomy with standard dissection and electrocautery. Study Design Review. Methods The Harmonic scalpel uses ultrasonic technology to cut and coagulate tissues at lower temperatures than those associated with electrocautery and lasers. Studies of the use of this device have assessed its performance with respect to intraoperative blood loss, postoperative hemorrhage, and postoperative pain. Results Intraoperative blood loss and episodes of postoperative hemorrhages have been found to be minimal in patients in whom the Harmonic scalpel was used for tonsillectomy. The device also appears to be associated with a reduction in postoperative pain. Conclusion Use of the Harmonic scalpel for tonsillectomy may have several advantages over standard methods.