Learning curve for Piezosurgery in well-trained otological surgeons

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Technology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Piezosurgery utilizes ultrasonic frequencies (24.7-29.5 kHz) for precise bone cutting.
• This technology minimizes damage to non-mineralized tissues and adjacent structures.
• Its application in otological surgery aims to improve outcomes and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the operative time required for otological procedures using a piezoelectric device.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of piezosurgery in stapedotomy and tympanoplasty.

Main Methods:

• A case series involving 126 patients (63 otosclerosis, 63 chronic otitis media) undergoing surgery.
• Patients were divided into three equal groups, each assigned to a surgeon trained in piezoelectric techniques.
• Procedures included stapedotomy and intact canal wall tympanoplasty, with data on operative time, success, complications, and hospital stay recorded.

Main Results:

• The piezoelectric device demonstrated excellent control during otological surgery.
• No adverse side effects were observed on the delicate structures of the middle and inner ear.
• The device facilitated precise osteotomy creation without an apparent learning curve for the surgeon.

Conclusions:

• Piezosurgery acts as a 'bony scalpel' with ultrasonic microvibrations, ensuring soft tissue safety.
• The device's manageability and precision make it highly suitable for otological bone surgery.
• Trained otological surgeons can effectively utilize the piezoelectric device for procedures like stapedotomy and tympanoplasty.