Tonsillectomy with the ultrasound activated scalpel. Initial results of technique with Ultracision Harmonic Scalpel

BACKGROUND: Tonsillectomy requires an efficient intra- and postoperative hemostasis. The ultrasonically activated scalpel (UAS) uses high-frequency ultrasonic energy to perform tissue dissection and coagulation simultaneously. The present prospective study represents the first published results of UAS in tonsillectomy. METHOD: 60 patients with tonsillectomy were examined in regard of intra- and postoperative hemostasis, wound healing and postoperative pain. Also, the quality of the histopathological specimen was evaluated. RESULTS: In 90% of tonsillectomies by UAS efficient intraoperative hemostasis did not require suture ligature. In 10% additional ligation was required for reason of arterial bleeding. Postoperative bleeding did not occur at all, wound healing was uneventful. Surgery related postoperative pain was not intensified. The histopathological evaluation of specimen was not impaired. CONCLUSION: The UAS offers a tissue dissection with efficacious intra- and postoperative hemostasis. Compared to the conventional tonsillectomy the ultrasonical technique of tonsillectomy has especially in children, in anaemic patients and in the surgery of tonsillar malignomas significant advantages.