ABSTRACT
The harmonic scalpel is a recent surgical instrument that allows intra-operative cutting and coagulation at the same time. The aim of this study was to compare between the usage of harmonic scalpel or electrocautery in modified radical mastectomy operation. This study included fourty patients with operable breast cancer. They were randomized into two equal groups to do modified radical mastectomy either using harmonic scalpel [group A] or using conventional electrocautery [group B]. The total operative time, the time of axillary dissection, the time for raising the flaps and the time of breast dissection were calculated. The days of drainage and the total drainage volume were also recorded. Calculating the time needed for axillary dissection revealed a significantly shorter time in patients operated on by harmonic scalpel. [p = 0.004]. The mean total draining volume in group [A] was lower than in group [B]. The difference was statistically significant. [p=0.02]. 15% of cases in group [A] and 25% of cases in group [B] suffered from postoperative seroma, the difference was statistically insignificant [p=o.677]. The use of harmonic scalpel in MRM shortening the axillary dissection time and decrease drainage volume, drainage day and hospital stay