Applications of the laparoscopic ultrasonic aspirator for advanced gynecologic operative endoscopic procedures

Abstract

We evaluated the efficacy of a new laparoscopic ultrasonic aspirator and applied it in gynecologic endoscopy. Two procedures were selected for preliminary evaluation of the instrument: ultrasonic aspiration for selective presacral neurectomies and total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH). The aspirator worked successfully in evaluating soft tissue and in adequately exposing the presacral plexus. In TLH we were able to skeletonize the broad ligament adventilia all the way to the level of the uterine arteries bilaterally, including exposure of the ureters. The time required for the procedures varied from case to case, and strongly depended on tissue type and on instruments used to dissect and improve visualization of the operative field. The aspirator may prove useful as an adjunctive in the surgical management of endometriosis, in laparoscopic lymphadenectomy, and in treating complex adhesions after further evaluation is completed.