Laparoscopic Sigmoid and Rectal Resection Using an Electrothermal Bipolar Vessel Sealing Device

Background: Laparoscopic colonic resection has gained popularity as a method to treat colonic diseases. The electrothermal bipolar vessel sealer (EBVS; LigaSure Atlas®) is a modern device that allows the secure sealing of vessels with a diameter of up to 7 mm. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the suitability of the device for laparoscopic colonic surgery. Methods: The immediate outcome of 114 consecutive patients who underwent a sigmoid or rectal resection was prospectively analyzed. The intention was to perform all operations with the EBVS for dissection and ligation of the mesenterial vessels. Details on patient characteristics, peroperative and postoperative complications, and postoperative recovery were recorded prospectively and analyzed. Results: One hundred and fourteen patients were scheduled for elective left-sided colonic or rectal resection. Massive intra-abdominal adhesions in 1 patient required a conversion of the laparoscopic procedure to an open one; In total, 113 laparoscopic o...