A novel monoshaft bipolar cautery for use in endoscopic intracranial surgery. A short technical note.

Abstract Background Intraoperative hemorrhage is a critical issue in the endoscopic evacuation of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Refined and dedicated endoscopic instruments for hemostasis are required. In this technical report, a hemostatic procedure using a monoshaft bipolar cautery is described. Technique and instrumentation The endoscope and monoshaft bipolar cautery are combined into a single-handed instrument, leaving the surgeon's other hand free to manipulate a suction cannula, and so a bimanual hemostatic device system – a combination of a monoshaft bipolar cautery and a multifunctional suction cannula – is obtained. Results Hemostasis was possible with the monoshaft bipolar cautery during endoscopic hematoma evacuation procedures. No intraoperative complications during hemostasis were apparent, nor were any apparent postoperative complications suggestive of inadvertent tissue damage. Conclusions The present report describes the successful use of a monoshaft bipolar cautery and its application in a bimanual hemostatic device system.