Harmonic Focus Research Articles

Sutureless FOCUS harmonic scalpel versus clamp-and-tie techniques for thyroidectomy: a meta-analysis of 43 randomized controlled trials

Background: One of the most important surgical steps during thyroidectomy is the safe ligation of vessels. In fact, it is crucial to avoid postoperative bleeding and nerves’ injury. The “clamp and tie” technique was first introduced in the 19th century. Since then, a lot of other techniques have been adopted to facilitate the safe ligation and sectioning of thyroidal vessels; however, one of the most relevant advances is the introduction of energy-based devices (EBDs), which occurred three decades ago. Purpose: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of sutureless FOCUS harmonic scalpel (second-generation EBDs) versus conventional clamps-and-tie technique) in total thyroidectomy. Results: This systematic review and meta-analysis represent the largest comparison in the literature between the thyroidectomy procedure with the second-generation advanced harmonic scalpel ultrasonic focus (UAS FOCUS) versus the conventional clamp-and-tie (CT) technique: as a matter of fact, it includes 43 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and a total of 10 361 patients. The incidence of transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy was statistically lower in patients undergoing UAS (3.99%) rather than CT (5.23%) (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.63–0.99). The incidence of transient hypocalcemia was 11.3% in patients who underwent thyroidectomy with UAS FOCUS and 15.4% in those who underwent thyroidectomy with CT. Conclusion: Sutureless EBD is associated with a lower risk of damage to the laryngeal nerves and parathyroid glands. The rate of hypocalcemia and nerve paresis is indeed lower due to less thermic damage. Sutureless EBD can also diminish the rate of postoperative bleeding and cervical hematoma, a rare but potentially fatal complication.

Subpectoral dissection using an ultrasonic energy device in prosthetic breast reconstruction

Background Ultrasonic devices have potential advantages over electrocautery surgical scalpels for muscle dissection, as they eliminate the risk of muscle contraction caused by electric currents. In this study, we investigated the outcomes of using both device types in subpectoral dissection for breast reconstruction.Methods In this retrospective single-center study, we examined the electronic medical records of female patients with non-recurrent breast cancer who underwent breast reconstruction. The patients were treated with either Harmonic Focus+ Shears (HFS) or a Bovie electrocautery scalpel (BES) between January 2015 and April 2020. The primary clinical outcomes evaluated were total drainage volume, time to drainage tube removal, and operation time. To control for confounding, outcomes were stratified based on the type of tissue expander used—either Mentor or Natrelle.Results The study included 303 patients; 155 (51.2%) were treated with HFS (mean age, 45.28±7.38 years) and 148 (48.8%) with BES (mean age, 44.41±9.37 years). Within each expander type, the frequency of drainage exceeding 30 cc per day after 21 postoperative days showed no statistical difference between the HFS and BES devices. The operation time was shorter for HFS in both the Mentor (85.13±19.81 minutes vs. 109.56±21.66 minutes, P<0.001) and Natrelle (88.09±20.64 minutes vs. 99.88±22.66, P<0.001) groups.Conclusions When controlling for the type of tissue expander as a confounding factor, HFS was associated with reduced operation time. Furthermore, it demonstrated superior clinical effectiveness compared to BES regarding operator convenience.

Comparative Study between the Effect of the Ultrasound Dissector (the Harmonic) versus Monopolar and Bipolar Electrocautry in Reducing Seroma Formation Post-Conservative Breast Surgery

Abstract Background Breast cancer, according to national cancer institute, is the commonest cancer in women in Egypt, It represents 37% of all female cancers among Egyptian females cancers, seroma is the most frequent postoperative complication following breast cancer surgery. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of the harmonic focus scalpel versus electrocautery (monoplar and bipolar) in reducing seroma formation post conservative breast surgery. Patients and Methods This prospective randomized study was conducted on female patients with breast tumours at the General Surgery Department at Ain Shams University Hospitals starting from November 2020 to May 2021. Approval of the Ethical Committee and written informed consent from all participants were obtained. Results Our study included 60 patients, in whom a conservative breast surgery and axillary clearance for breast cancer were performed, were randomly allocated to either harmonic dissection (n = 20) or monopolar electrocautery (n = 20) or bipolar electrocautery (n = 20). Our mean age was 45.47±9.14 years (19-60 years). 10/60 patients (16.6%) had positive family history of mammary cancer, 18/60 patients were diabetic (30%), 23/60 patients were hypertensive (38%), 10/60 patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (10%). The mean lesional size was 2.9 ±1.03 cm (1.5-6.2 cm).the mean safety margin was 2.23±0.37 (1.5-3 cm). Operation timing was longer in bipolar electrocautry being (91.90 ± 3.14 minute) than monopolar elctrocautery being (83.35± 3.41 minute), while in harmonic group operation timing being (51.65 ± 5.02 minute).in addition intraoprative blood loss was significant large amount in monopolar electrocautery 75.15 ± 3.12 ml, while in harmonic dissection compared with bipolar electrocautery mean intraoprative blood loss was no significant (52.00 ± 4.18 ml vs 55.80 ± 9.89 ml pvalue =0.055). moreover there was asignificant reduction in the mean time of drain removal (2.90 ± 0.64 day in harmonic dissector), while in bipolar electrocautery 4.95 ± 0.69 day and longest mean time in drain removed in monopolar electrocautery 6.85 ± 0.37 day). And the incidence of seroma formation after drain removal is significant in monopola relectrocautery 58.3%. p-value =0.040, while in harmonic dissection compared bipolar electrocautery incidence of seroma formation after drain removal (16.7% vs 25.0%), this mean that harmonic dissector is low incidence of seroma formation. Conclusion Harmonic dissection technique leads to significant decreases in intraoperative blood loss, operative time, mean time of drain removal and postoperative seroma in terms of shorter drain duration and better quality of life. Here, we recommend the use of the harmonic dissection technique in conservative breast surgery.

Postoperative Outcomes of Breast Cancer Surgery of Iraqi Patients According To a Comparative Study between Harmonic Focus or Monopolar Electrocautery

Postoperative Outcomes of Breast Cancer Surgery of Iraqi Patients According To a Comparative Study between Harmonic Focus or Monopolar Electrocautery

A comparison of harmonic and traditional sharp staphylectomy techniques in 15 brachycephalic dogs.

The objective was to compare sharp staphylectomy and staphylectomy using harmonic focus shears, assess surgical time, intraoperative haemorrhage and outcome. Our hypothesis was that harmonic staphylectomy would result in reduced surgical time, decreased intraoperative haemorrhage and greater relative improvement. Dogs that were presented to Highcroft Veterinary Referrals between July 2020 and September 2021 with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and underwent surgical correction were prospectively enrolled. Surgical technique was randomised, and surgical time, staphylectomy time, intraoperative haemorrhage, hospitalisation and change in patients' Cambridge BOAS Grade at a 14-day recheck were recorded. Fifteen dogs were enrolled: seven dogs underwent sharp and eight underwent harmonic staphylectomy. Nine patients returned for follow-up, four of seven and five of eight, respectively. Harmonic staphylectomy was associated with less haemorrhage (0 versus 9 cotton buds) and a shorter average staphylectomy time (3minutes 36 seconds versus 14 minutes 50 seconds). No statistically significant differences were observed in total surgery time, number of nights hospitalised, or change in Cambridge BOAS Grade. An average of 0.68 mm of thermal necrosis was seen at the cut edges of soft palates removed by harmonic staphylectomy. Harmonic staphylectomy can result in a reduction in staphylectomy time and degree of intraoperative haemorrhage compared to sharp staphylectomy, with no deleterious impact on postoperative recovery or the long-term outcome of patients.

251 Use of Harmonic Focus Shears in Plastic Surgery Literature Review and Future Recommendations

Abstract Introduction Harmonic Focus Shears (HFS) (Ethicon Endo-Surgery, USA) is an ultrasonic device specifically designed through its curved clips and hand activated trigger system to be precise and minimise the impact on tissues. Initially designed for head and neck dissection and proved to be effective without increasing risk of complications in thyroidectomy procedure it is surprisingly rarely mentioned in the field of plastic surgery. We performed a literature search to established current uses of ultrasonic devices in plastic surgery and determine its effectiveness, and future uses. Method Literature search was performed in accordance with guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Metanalysis. Discussion Use of ultrasonic devices as harmonic prove to be a useful tool in precise large tissue dissection surgery including pedicled flap and free flap dissection. Described benefits embrace upgraded operative time, blood loss, tissue discharge and morbidity. Initially described to be superior to traditional electrocauthery in facelift procedure, ultrasonic devices then evolved to be advantageous when considering outcomes in breast reduction surgery, implant-based breast reconstruction and capsulectomy. HFS as a novel and improved ultrasonic device allows for focused forceps dissection, haemostasis and tissue coagulation without the need to swap instruments that is safe to the surrounding tissues. Learning curve is expected, and pitfalls include additional staff training, multiple wire device setup, single use and possible overheating. On balance however improved timings and therefore operative efficiency, low risks of complications and optimal patient outcomes make this method of tissue handling a favourable tool to introduce to common plastic surgical practice.

EP-87 Use of Harmonic Focus Shears in Plastic Surgery. Literature review and future recommendations

Abstract Introduction Harmonic Focus Shears (HFS) (Ethicon Endo-Surgery, USA) is an ultrasonic device specifically designed through its curved clips and hand activated trigger system to be precise and minimise the impact on tissues. Initially designed for head and neck dissection and proved to be effective without increasing risk of complications in thyroidectomy procedure it is surprisingly rarely mentioned in the field of plastic surgery. We performed a literature search to established current uses of ultrasonic devices in plastic surgery and determine its effectiveness, and future uses. Methods Literature search was performed in accordance to guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Metanalysis. Discussion Use of ultrasonic devices as harmonic prove to be a useful tool in precise large tissue dissection surgery including pedicled flap and free flap dissection. Described benefits embrace upgraded operative time, blood loss, tissue discharge and morbidity. Initially described to be superior to traditional electrocauthery in facelift procedure, ultrasonic devices then evolved to be advantageous when considering outcomes in breast reduction surgery, implant based breast reconstruction and capsulectomy. HFS as a novel and improved ultrasonic device allows for focused forceps dissection, haemostasis and tissue coagulation without the need to swap instruments that is safe to the surrounding tissues. Learning curve is expected and pitfalls include additional staff training, multiple wire device setup, single use and possible overheating. On balance however improved timings and therefore operative efficiency, low risks of complications and optimal patient outcomes make this method of tissue handling a favourable tool to introduce to common plastic surgical practice.

The Use of Harmonic Focus and Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw in Thyroid Surgery: Experience of a High-Volume Center.

Background: In thyroid surgery, achieving accurate haemostasis is fundamental in order to avoid the occurrence of complications. Energy-based devices are currently extensively utilized in this field of surgery. This study aims to compare Harmonic Focus and Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw with regard to surgical outcomes and complications. Methods: Patients submitted to total thyroidectomy in our center, between January 2017 and June 2020, were retrospectively analysed. Based on the energy-based device utilized, two groups were identified: Group A (Harmonic Focus) and Group B (Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw). Results: A total of 527 patients were included: 409 in Group A and 118 in Group B. About surgical outcomes, the mean operative time was significantly shorter in Group B than in Group A (p < 0.001), while as regards complications, the occurrence of transient recurrent laryngeal nerve injury was significantly greater in Group B than in Group A (p = 0.019). Conclusions. Both Harmonic Focus and Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw have proven to be effective devices. Operative times were significantly shorter in thyroidectomies performed with Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw; however, the occurrence of transient recurrent laryngeal nerve injury was significantly greater in patients operated on with this device.

Complications associated with energy-based devices during thyroidectomy from 2010-2020.

Harmonic Focus (Ethicon, Johnson and Johnson, Cincinnati, OH, USA), LigaSure Small Jaw (Medtronic, Covidien Products, Minneapolis, MN, USA), and Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw (Olympus, Japan) are electrosurgical instruments used widely in head and neck surgery. The study aims to compare device malfunctions, adverse events to patients, operative injuries, and interventions related to Harmonic, LigaSure, and Thunderbeat use during thyroidectomy. The US Food and Drug Administration's Manufacture and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database was queried for adverse events associated with Harmonic, LigaSure, and Thunderbeat from January 2005 to August 2020. Data were extracted from reports pertaining to thyroidectomy. Of the 620 adverse events extracted, 394 (63.5%) involved Harmonic, 134 (21.6%) LigaSure, and 92 (14.8%) Thunderbeat. The reported device malfunctions most frequently associated with Harmonic was damage to the blade (110 (27.9%)), LigaSure was inappropriate function (47 (43.1%)), Thunderbeat was damage to the tissue or Teflon pad (27 (30.7%)), respectively. Burn injury and incomplete hemostasis were the most commonly reported adverse events. The operative injury reported most frequently when using Harmonic and LigaSure was burn injury. No operator injuries were reported with Thunderbeat use. The most frequently reported device malfunctions were damage to the blade, inappropriate function, and damage to the tissue or Teflon pad. The most frequently reported adverse events to patients was a burn injury and incomplete hemostasis. Interventions aimed at improving physician education may help reduce adverse events attributed to improper use.

Thyroidectomy facilitated with Harmonic Caliper and intraoperative neural monitoring in three horses

SummaryBackgroundThyroidectomy in horses is performed conventionally; however, both iatrogenic and post‐operative complications occur, mostly due to injury of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN).ObjectiveTo facilitate sufficient understanding of the use of the Harmonic Focus® Shear (HFS) together with intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) of the RLN during thyroidectomy in horses.Study designRetrospective case series.MethodsThree horses were presented with a thyroid mass, and a hemithyroidectomy was performed using the HFS together with IONM. Medical records were reviewed. Findings at short‐term follow‐up at 6 weeks after surgery and long‐term follow‐up obtained from the referring veterinarian or owner 3 years after surgery were evaluated.ResultsThe horses were 9–17 years old. Thyroid enlargement was unilateral in all horses, with two on the left side and one on the right side. Histological findings were consistent with adenocarcinoma, C‐cell adenocarcinoma and adenoma in each horse. Neither intraoperative‐ nor post‐operative complications were encountered. Short‐ and long‐term follow‐up showed that all horses returned to previous activity.Main limitationsThe limitation of this study is the small sample size, reflecting the low prevalence of this disease and the rarity of this procedure in horses.ConclusionsThe use of the HFS and IONM enabled an easy, precise dissection, adequate haemostasis and direct visualisation of the RLN during thyroidectomy, avoiding its damage and allowing evaluation of its function intraoperatively.

Comparison of effects of energy based devices on quality of life after sutureless thyroidectomy.

Objective:In current literature, no studies evaluated effect of energy-based vessel-sealing-devices on quality of life after sutureless total thyroidectomies. This study aimed to identify any potential differences between two energy-based vessel-sealing-devices (Harmonic Focus, Ligasure LF1212) in patients with benign thyroid disorders who underwent sutureless total thyroidectomy.Materials and methods:Differences in quality of life of patients were evaluated using data obtained by Thy-PRO-39-Tr questionnaire prior to and four-week after surgery. Total and domain-based alterations in quality of life were compared between groups according to energy-based vessel-sealing-devices type (Group L, Group H). Additionally, data including demographics, height, weight, body mass index, neck circumference, sternomental distance were collected.Results:Of 1032 patients, 200 were eligible for study, at the end 193 were analysed. There were no differences between groups in terms of age, sex, body mass index, tobacco use. Analysis did not reveal any differences in overall quality of life between groups (P = .42). However, in “eye symptoms” (P < .001) and “cognitive functions” (P = .002) domains, Harmonic provided statistically improved quality of life. Effect on cognitive function was greater in patients of advanced age.Conclusions:Especially in elderly patients with worsening eye conditions and cognitive functions, use of Harmonic may enhance patients’ outcome by increasing quality of life in addition to optimizing surgical outcome when compared to Ligasure.

Medical applications of ionizing radiation and radiation protection for European patients, population and environment

Medical applications of ionising radiation (IR) represent a key component of the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases, guaranteeing efficient health care. The use of IR in medicine, the largest source of general population radiation exposure, is potentially associated with increased risk of cancer and non-cancer diseases, which needs to be evaluated to provide evidence-based input for risk-benefit considerations. Efforts are also needed to improve the safety and efficacy of medical applications through optimisation. The EC Euratom programme enhances research in medical radiation protection. The four complementary multidisciplinary projects presented here contribute to (1) improving knowledge on exposure and effects of diagnostic and therapeutic applications and (2) transferring results into clinical practice. The common aim is to optimise use for individual patients, enhance education and training, ensuring adherence to ethical standards, particularly related to technologies based on artificial intelligence. MEDIRAD, SINFONIA and HARMONIC focus on improving exposure estimation and studying the detrimental effects of diagnostic and therapeutic medical exposures in patients and staff using different endpoints. EURAMED rocc-n-roll brings together the results of the projects and the recommendations generated by them to build, in collaboration with the EU Radiation Protection research platforms, a strategic research agenda and a roadmap for research priorities.

Parathyroid hormone level after total thyroidectomy using conventional versus harmonic focus technique: Prospective randomized study

BackgroundTotal thyroidectomy is a common procedure, we wish to examine the effects of utilizing a harmonic scalpel with traditional procedures on parathyroid hormone levels. Patients and methods100 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy at the Department of General Surgery, were enrolled in this prospective randomized study, were randomly allocated into two equal groups: Group I: total thyroidectomy using a harmonic scalpel (HS) and Group II: total thyroidectomy using conventional technique. ResultsThere is a significant association between the technique of surgery and the decrease in Postoperative PTH, Mean Difference, Pre and Postoperative and the change Pre PTH (p-value <0.001). ConclusionThe postoperative serum level of parathyroid hormone declined significantly after thyroidectomy if the conventional method was used. Using HS during thyroidectomy is safe and effective with low rates of hypoparathyroidism.

Reduction in perioperative blood loss using ultrasound-activated scissors during tumour surgery

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of Harmonic Focus+ scissors with the conventional surgical method regarding surgical blood loss and transfusion of blood products in the surgical treatment of head and neck tumours. In a retrospective study, the intraoperative blood loss, number of units of transfusion products given, operating time, and inpatient length of stay of 74 patients with squamous cell carcinoma were compared. Patients who underwent classic tumour surgery were compared with a group treated with Harmonic Focus+ scissors. A significantly lower intraoperative blood loss (496.15⬰ml vs 1096.0⬰ml, respectively; P⬰=⬰0.002) and shorter operation time (436.89 minutes vs 493.13 minutes, respectively; P⬰=⬰0.030) were achieved using the Harmonic Focus+ scissors when compared to the classic tumour surgery. Additionally, fewer units of blood products needed to be transfused (administration of red cell concentrates, P⬰<⬰0.001) and the length of stay in the intensive care unit was shorter for patients treated with the Harmonic Focus+ scissors (P⬰=⬰0.009). The study results indicate that the use of Harmonic Focus+ scissors during surgery for cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx is a safe and cost-effective method. This is of paramount importance during a pandemic when medical resources are scarce, including access to blood reserves.

Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of Harmonic Focus versus monopolar electrocautery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast conservative surgery: a comparative study

BackgroundSurgical devices are commonly used during breast conservative surgery (BCS) to provide better hemostasis. The Harmonic scalpel has recently gained momentum as an effective tool for intraoperative bleeding reduction. This comparative study was designed to determine the efficacy of Harmonic Focus in reducing postoperative complications of BCS after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (CTH) compared to the conventional method using monopolar diathermy.ResultsA prospective, nonrandomized, comparative study was conducted on patients scheduled to undergo BCS with axillary dissection after neoadjuvant CTH. Patients in the Harmonic Focus group had significantly shorter operative times than the monopolar electrocautery group (101.32 ± 27.3 vs. 139.3 ± 31.9 min, respectively; p < 0.001). Besides, blood loss was significantly lower in the Harmonic Focus group (117.14 ± 35.6 vs. 187 ± 49.8 mL, respectively; p < 0.001). Postoperatively, patients in the Harmonic Focus group had a significantly lower volume of chest wall drain (p < 0.001) and shorter time until drain removal (p < 0.001). Likewise, patients in the Harmonic Focus group had a significantly lower volume of axillary drain and shorter time until drain removal than monopolar electrocautery (p < 0.001). The incidence of postoperative complications was comparable between both groups (p = 0.128).ConclusionsThis study confirmed the superiority of Harmonic Focus compared to monopolar electrocautery among patients receiving neoadjuvant CTH before BCS.

A randomized controlled trial of stapled versus ultrasonic transection in distal pancreatectomy

BackgroundThe pancreatic transection method during distal pancreatectomy is thought to influence postoperative fistula rates. Yet, the optimal technique for minimizing fistula occurrence is still unclear. The present randomized controlled trial compared stapled versus ultrasonic transection in elective distal pancreatectomy.MethodsPatients undergoing distal pancreatectomy from July 2018 to July 2020 at two high-volume institutions were considered for inclusion. Exclusion criteria were contiguous organ resection and a parenchymal thickness > 17 mm on intraoperative ultrasound. Eligible patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to stapled transection (Endo GIA Reinforced Reload with Tri-Staple Technology®) or ultrasonic transection (Harmonic Focus® + or Harmonic Ace® + shears). The primary endpoint was postoperative pancreatic fistula. Secondary endpoints included overall complications, abdominal collections, and length of hospital stay.ResultsOverall, 72 patients were randomized in the stapled transection arm and 73 patients in the ultrasonic transection arm. Postoperative pancreatic fistula occurred in 23 patients (16%), with a comparable incidence between groups (12% in stapled transection versus 19% in ultrasonic dissection arm, p = 0.191). Overall complications did not differ substantially (35% in stapled transection versus 44% in ultrasonic transection arm, p = 0.170). There was an increased incidence of abdominal collections in the ultrasonic dissection group (32% versus 14%, p = 0.009), yet the need for percutaneous drain did not differ between randomization arms (p = 0.169). The median length of stay was 8 days in both groups (p = 0.880). Intraoperative blood transfusion was the only factor independently associated with postoperative pancreatic fistula on logistic regression analysis (OR 4.8, 95% CI 1.2–20.0, p = 0.032).ConclusionThe present randomized controlled trial of stapled versus ultrasonic transection in elective distal pancreatectomy demonstrated no significant difference in postoperative pancreatic fistula rates and no substantial clinical impact on other secondary endpoints.

Energy-Based Devices Affect the Aesthetic Outcome of Cervical Thyroidectomy and Parathyroidectomy. A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Thyroid and parathyroid diseases are very common. Most of these cases are in women and may be amenable to surgery. The patient’s perception that these are not life-threatening diseases leads them to expect an excellent aesthetic result, since the surgical incision area is clearly visible. Objective: To evaluate different scarring outcomes using three different energy-based devices (Harmonic Focus®, Johnson &amp; Johnson, New Brunswick, NJ; Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw®, Olympus Medical, Tokyo, Japan; LigaSure Small Jaw®, Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) and to determine the impact of post-thyroidectomy/parathyroidectomy scars on the patient’s quality of life. Methods: One hundred female patients who underwent thyroidectomy or parathyroidectomy between September 2017 and September 2019 at the Endocrine and Minimally Invasive Surgery Department of Messina University Hospital were recruited. A retrospective analysis assessed the thickness of the cervical scar via ultrasound imaging, and the patient’s degree of satisfaction through the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ). Results: The patients were divided into three groups according to the energy-device used: group A (LigaSure SJ (n=38), group B (Harmonic F, n=32) and group C (Thunderbeat OFJ, n=30). The three groups were homogeneous with respect to number of patients, age and surgical procedures. The best aesthetic result, which correlated with the lowest scar thickness, was observed in group A; these patients were more satisfied than those in the other two groups. Moreover, correlations between scar thickness and quantitative variables (such as age or BMI) were not found in any of the groups. Conclusions: Based on the data collected and our experience, the LigaSure Small Jaw® (Medtronic) seems to offer the best aesthetic outcome in patients who undergo transverse cervicotomy for thyroid and parathyroid diseases. However, further prospective studies involving a greater number of cases are needed.

Evaluation of ultrasonic axillary dissection in preservation of intercostobrachial nerve and lymphatic sealing in breast cancer patients: Randomized controlled trial

BackgroundElectrocautery has been shown to be associated with excessive serous drainage which may lead to many complications in patients with breast cancer needing dissection of the axillary lymph nodes. The Harmonic Focus could outperform electrocautery in dissection of axillary lymph nodes, resulting in shortening of the operative times and minimize postoperative complications. This study aims to compare the mean axillary drain production and the axillary numbness frequency in axillary lymph node dissection (ANLD) during Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM) and breast conservative surgery (BCS) between the use of harmonics scalpel and electrocautery. MethodsThis study includes 40 patients presented with early breast cancer (T1 and T2) underwent BCS or MRM in general surgery department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University Hospital during the period from January 2017 to September 2019. The patients randomly assigned into 2 groups; group A: subjected to ANLD using Harmonic Focus tool and group B: subjected to ANLD using electrocautery. Operative time, total drainage volume, blood loss, duration of the drain and frequency of axillary numbness were recorded. ResultsThis study shows that using Harmonic in axillary dissection considerably reduced operating time, total drainage volume, blood loss, days of hospital stays and reduced axillary numbness level in comparison to conventional electrocautery. ConclusionCompared to the normal electrocautery, the harmonic focus dissection has major advantages in lowering postoperative drainage, blood loss intra-operative and lower incidence of axillary numbness in breast cancer axillary dissection, without affecting operating time.

Vessel-Sealing Capability of Novel Microwave Sealer: Experimental Study in Animal Models.

Background. Ultrasonically activated dissectors (UADs) and radiofrequency-based devices have been considered excellent surgical devices because of their reliability and flexibility. Meanwhile, microwave-based devices have demonstrated potential with their unique heating mechanism. This study aims to compare the sealing function of a newly invented forceps-like microwave sealer (MS) with that of currently available UADs. Materials and Methods. MS and 2 examples of UADs (Harmonic Focus+ [HF+] and Sonicision [SNC]) were employed to perform mesenterectomies (in vivo) and sealing sizable vessels (ex vivo). Vessel diameter, seal time, burst pressure (BP), sealing completion, and instrument sticking were recorded. The samples underwent histological investigation for thermal damage evaluation. Results. During mesenterectomies, MS required 3seconds and 30W to secure a complete seal. The BP achieved by the MS seal was higher than that of HF+ and SNC on arteries (851 ± 203.7 vs 682.4 ± 287.3, P < .05; vs 833.1 ± 251.2mmHg, P = .4523, respectively) but was not statistically different on veins (324.9 ± 203.5 vs 460.1 ± 320.3 vs 508.3 ± 350.7mmHg, P = .215). In all trials, MS caused less sticking but exhibited similar heat-induced alterations to UADs. MS's thermal spread was not statistically more extended than that of UADs on either arteries or veins. Conclusions. MS was capable of not only sealing tiny vessels but also achieving high-pressure endurance on sizable vessels. Its forceful grasping and synchronous heating process helped create solid stumps with an acceptable thermal spread.

Thyroidectomy with energy-based devices: surgical outcomes and complications-comparison between Harmonic Focus, LigaSure Small Jaw and Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw.

Being the thyroid gland a highly vascularized organ, achieving a meticulous hemostasis is essential to avoid serious complications. Currently, energy-based devices are widely used in thyroid surgery. The aim of this study was to compare Harmonic Focus (HF), LigaSure Small Jaw (LSJ) and Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw (TB) in terms of surgical outcomes and complications. Patients undergoing thyroidectomy in our Unit between January 2012 and June 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the type of energy-device used, patients were divided into three groups: Group A (HF), Group B (LSJ) and Group C (TB). A total of 1,165 patients were included in this study: 1,012 in Group A, 96 in Group B and 57 in Group C. Demographic data and histopathological findings were comparable between the three groups. About the postoperative stay and complications, no statistically significant difference was found. The mean operative time was 89.41±20.60 minutes in Group A, 85.57±15.91 minutes in Group B and 78.07±17.67 minutes in Group C (P<0.01). However, the post-hoc test for all pairwise comparisons showed a statistically significant difference only between Group A and Group C. HF, LSJ and TB have proved to be safe and effective. The postoperative stay and complications were comparable between the three groups. Considering the limits of our investigation, further studies are needed to investigate the effect of TB on operative times.