Electrothermal bipolar vessel sealing system in axillary dissection: a prospective randomized clinical study

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Minimally Invasive Techniques
• Breast Cancer Management

Background:

• Axillary lymph node dissection is a standard procedure for breast cancer staging and treatment.
• Conventional axillary dissection can involve significant blood loss and prolonged recovery.
• Evaluating novel energy devices for improved surgical outcomes is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the perioperative outcomes of axillary dissection using LigaSure versus conventional methods in breast cancer patients.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of LigaSure in reducing intraoperative bleeding and hospital stay.
• To determine if LigaSure impacts postoperative complication rates.

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized study involving 100 women with breast cancer requiring axillary dissection.
• Patients were randomized into two groups: LigaSure axillary dissection (n=50) and conventional axillary dissection (n=50).
• Both groups utilized closed suction drains; outcomes including blood loss, operative time, drainage duration, and hospitalization were recorded.

Main Results:

• LigaSure group showed significantly less intraoperative blood loss (30.8% vs. 69.2%, P < 0.001).
• Axillary dissection was quicker with LigaSure (mean 48 min vs. 63.2 min, P = 0.004).
• Fewer drainage days (4.3 vs. 5.7 days, P = 0.012) and shorter hospitalization (5.1 vs. 6.5 days, P = 0.021) were observed with LigaSure, with no increase in hematomas, reoperations, or infections.

Conclusions:

• LigaSure facilitates axillary dissection in breast cancer patients, leading to reduced surgical time and hospital stay.
• Early drain removal is feasible with LigaSure without compromising safety or increasing postoperative complications.
• The electrothermal bipolar vessel sealing system offers a beneficial alternative for axillary surgery in breast cancer management.