ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The authors hypothesized that the Harmonic Scalpel (Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Cincinnati, Ohio) might outperform electrocautery in bilateral breast reduction surgery, possibly resulting in (1) shorter operative times, (2) lower postoperative fluid drainage rates, and (3) reduced postoperative pain scores. METHODS: Thirty-one patients were evaluated in a matched-pair design, with random (blinded) assignment of one side to the Harmonic Scalpel, with the other side defaulting to electrocautery. Main outcome measures were: (1) resection/hemostasis time, (2) drainage volume, and (3) postoperative pain. The authors also compared the learning curves, operative time versus specimen weights, complications, and costs for the devices. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant (but not clinically significant) difference between the median times for the Harmonic Scalpel (33 minutes) and electrocautery (31 minutes) (p=0.02). There was no statistical difference in drainage scores, and pain scores were equivalent. The analysis of specimen weight versus resection/hemostasis time showed no correlation. There were more complications on the breasts reduced with the Harmonic device, but due to the small sample size, the complication results were not statistically significant. Start-up costs for the devices were comparable, but the per-procedure cost for the Harmonic device was considerably higher. CONCLUSIONS: The Harmonic Scalpel is roughly equivalent to electrocautery in breast reduction surgery in terms of resection/hemostasis time, serous drainage, and postoperative pain. Though the Harmonic device may be excellent for other surgical procedures, its high cost suggests that surgeons and institutions can confidently forgo its use in breast reduction surgery. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, II.
Subject(s)
Electrocoagulation/methods , Mammaplasty/methods , Ultrasonic Therapy/instrumentation , Adult , Electrocoagulation/adverse effects , Esthetics , Female , Follow-Up Studies , Humans , Mammaplasty/instrumentation , Middle Aged , Postoperative Complications/physiopathology , Risk Assessment , Single-Blind Method , Surgical Instruments , Time Factors , Treatment Outcome , Ultrasonic Therapy/adverse effects , Young AdultABSTRACT
Patients with major injuries to the upper limbs sometimes fail to achieve successful limb salvage. During the attempt to fashion a functional limb, multiple painful procedures may be ventured. Despite the best efforts of surgeons and therapists, a nonfunctioning or painful upper limb may remain in place for many months or years before late delayed amputation and progression to productive rehabilitation occur. We present three patient cases that illustrate failed upper-limb salvage. In each case, patients expressed a desire for amputation at 6 months after their injury. To reduce the pain and suffering that patients with failed limb salvage endure, we propose a paradigm shift in the limb-salvage time line. We suggest that patients be evaluated for early delayed amputation 6 months after their injury.
