T I S S U E
M A N A G E M E N T
look at the capabilities, costs and potential benefits of the newest generation of devices.
Ultrasonic offerings
Ultrasonic energy differs from monopolar, bipolar and advanced bipolar systems in the mechanism by which it works. Electrical current doesn't flow through or to the patient — it stays within the
instrumentation itself — so you don't need to use dispersive electrodes. Instead, cutting, cavitation and coagulation happen when a ceramic blade vibrates incredibly quickly — about 55,500 times a second. Because electricity generates these vibrations, heat, dissection and coagulation occur at lower temperatures than with electrosurgery. That means heat distribution is better controlled — minimizing the risk of excessive tissue damage (beyond the inherent damage of dissection), letting you use it more safely near vital organ structures — and tissue plume is reduced.
The newest ultrasonic systems are available in a versatile range of instrument styles that include 5mm blades in hook, straight and curved versions, as well as grasper and dissector designs that physicians commonly use. Surgeons can therefore work around a variety of anatomical structures and angles without fear of causing damage to the surrounding tissue. A wider range of handle designs is also available, so surgeons can use what's most comfortable for them (in addition to the right length for the procedure at hand).
