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Ultrasound scissors: new single-use instruments vs. resterilised single-use instruments - a prospective randomised
D Gärtner1, K Münz, E Hückelheim
1Klinik für Allgemein- und Viszeralchirurgie, Klinikum Stuttgart, Krankenhaus Bad Cannstatt, Stuttgart, Deutschland.
GMS Krankenhaushygiene Interdisziplinar
|March 6, 2010
Summary
This study found that resterilized ultrasonic scissors are as reliable as new ones for surgical handling and function. Using resterilized instruments significantly reduces costs and enhances efficiency in laparoscopic surgery.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Technology
- Medical Device Reprocessing
- Laparoscopic Surgery
Background:
- Evaluating the functional reliability and handling characteristics of medical instruments is crucial for patient safety.
- The reprocessing of single-use ultrasonic scissors presents a potential cost-saving measure in surgical settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the reliability in handling and function between resterilized and new single-use ultrasonic scissors.
- To assess the economic and efficiency implications of using resterilized ultrasonic scissors in laparoscopic procedures.
Main Methods:
- A prospective randomized study design was employed.
- Surgeons blindly evaluated new and resterilized ultrasonic scissors based on parameters including activation force, cutting and coagulation effects, error messages, and generator noise.
- A total of 100 instruments (51 new, 49 resterilized) were assessed across 94 operations.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed in activation force, cutting effect, or coagulation effect between new and resterilized ultrasonic scissors.
- Both groups exhibited rare occurrences of error messages and disturbing generator noise.
- Instrument failure requiring intraoperative exchange was low, with 6 new and 2 resterilized instruments needing replacement.
Conclusions:
- Resterilized ultrasonic scissors demonstrate comparable reliability in function and handling to new instruments.
- The adoption of resterilized ultrasonic scissors offers substantial cost reductions.
- Utilizing resterilized instruments can contribute to improved efficiency within laparoscopic surgery.
