The ultrasound scalpel in laparoscopic surgery
Witzigmann, H.; Otto, M.; Hauss, J.
Der Chirurg; Zeitschrift für Alle Gebiete der Operativen Medizen 67(4): 455-457
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-4722 PMID: 8646937 Document Number: 467771
The ultrasonically activated scalpel works by means of the longitudinally vibrating sharp blade. The most important advantages- compared with electrosurgery-are the lack of current flow through the patient and limited local heat generation. It can be used as an instrument for coagulation, dissection and preparation. There is no generation of smoke. It is easy to use. Disadvantages are the slow speed of cutting and the high costs. In the future it could be an alternative to preparation on with dissector, scissors, and electrosurgery.