Background
Despite their safety and effectiveness in thyroid surgery, the previous harmonic scalpel
instruments are considered large and cumbersome by several surgeons. An innovative
technical improvement of the device has been made available since 2008. The objective
of this study was to compare the results of total thyroidectomy using the new harmonic
scalpel (FOCUS) with that with the previously available device (HARMONIC ACE).
Methods
A prospective randomized study of all total thyroidectomies between February and July
2008 was conducted. Patients (n = 90) were randomized to undergo total thyroidectomy with FOCUS (group A, n = 45) or HARMONIC ACE (group B, n = 45).
Results
No significant differences were identified between the 2 groups in terms of demographics,
reoperative thyroid surgery, thyroid gland weight and diameter, pathologic diagnosis,
preoperative and postoperative serum PTH and calcium levels, postoperative complications,
duration of hospital stay, and final outcome. The mean operative time was less in
group A than group B (63 ± 7 min vs 76 ± 8 min, P = .009).
Conclusion
The new harmonic scalpel is a useful adjunct to the armamentarium of the thyroid surgeon.
It is safe, effective, and hand friendly, offering great capabilities for delicate
tissue grasping and dissection. Use of this device decreased operative time compared
with the previously available instrument.
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: September 20, 2010
Accepted:
August 5,
2010
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 Mosby, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
