Usefulness of the Harmonic Scalpel in Thyroid Surgery

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The harmonic scalpel using the ultrasonic energy is able to grasp and divide tissue while sealing small vessels in narrow operating fields. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of the harmonic scalpel in thyroid surgery. Materials and Methods: This study was performed for 247 patients who underwent thyroidectomy. According to the use of harmonic Scalpel, the patients could be divided into two groups: the conventional technique (CT) group of knot tying and the harmonic scalpel (HS) group. Results:For hemithyroidectomy, operation time and hospital stay were shorter in the HS group compared with the CT group (p＜0.05). For total thyroidectomy with central neck dissection (CND), operation time, total drainage volume, drain removal date, and hospital stay were significantly reduced in the HS group (p＜0.05). Among the patients who underwent total thyroidectomy with CND with the HS, one patient (2.9%) showed transient recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy. Transient hypoparathyroidism showed significantly lower incidence in the HS group (p＜0.05). Conclusion: HS might be cost-effective by reducing operation time and hospital stay without increased postoperative complications.