ABSTRACT
Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the mean per operative and post operative blood loss using harmonic scalpel and monopolar electrocautry in modified radical mastectomy. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial. Place and Duration of Study: Department of surgery PNS Shifa Karachi, from 25[th] Oct 2011 to 24[th] Apr 2012
Material and Methods: A total of 64 patients, undergoing Modified Radical Mastectomy [MRM] were randomly divided into two groups of 32 patients each, using random numbers table. Dissection in group A was done using Harmonic Scalpel [HS]. Group B underwent Monopolar Electrocautry [ME] for dissection and hemostasis. Mean per and post operative blood loss was calculated in milliliters
Results: Mean per operative and post operative blood loss using harmonic scalpel [group-A] was 121.19 +/- 5.63 ml while 603.35 +/- 8.04 ml loss was recorded in monopolar electrocautry group [group B]. A p-value was calculated as <0.001 which shows a significant difference between both the groups
Conclusion: The mean per and post operative blood loss using harmonic scalpel is significantly less than using monopolar electrocautry in modified radical mastectomy