Advantages of a new technique of neck dissection using an ultrasonic scalpel

Abstract

The aim of the study was to see whether a new technique of a neck dissection applying an ultrasonic activated (harmonic) scalpel would improve patient recovery. A prospective, non-randomized study was undertaken on 40 supraomohyoid neck dissections performed using a harmonic scalpel (20 pts) or electrocoagulation (20 pts). The evaluation included: operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative seroma formation and pattern of wound healing. The operative time (mean+/-SD) using a harmonic scalpel was significantly shorter (52+/-10 min vs. 86+/-22 min; p<or=0.001) and the blood loss was less (13+/-7 ml vs. 85+/-58 ml; p<or=0.001), neck drainage on the first and second postoperative days were significantly smaller after using the ultrasonic scalpel (30+/-26 ml; 44+/-23 ml vs. 77+/-65 ml; 118+/-66 ml, p<or=0.001). Wound healing complications amounted to only 5% (20% in the control group). The use of the harmonic scalpel during neck dissection led to diminished bleeding, shorter operative time, lesser seroma formation and better wound healing in the postoperative period.