Harmonic scalpel assisted superficial parotidectomy.

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Techniques

Background:

• The Harmonic Scalpel (HS) is increasingly utilized in various surgical procedures.
• Superficial parotidectomy is a common surgical intervention for benign parotid gland pathologies.
• Evaluating novel surgical tools for improved outcomes in parotid surgery is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the safety and efficacy of Harmonic Scalpel (HS) assisted superficial parotidectomy.
• To compare HS parotidectomy with conventional cold knife techniques regarding operative time, facial nerve function, and drainage.
• To determine the impact of HS on patient outcomes in benign parotidectomies.

Main Methods:

• A nonrandomized retrospective review of 58 patients undergoing superficial parotidectomy for benign pathology.
• Patients were divided into two groups: Harmonic Scalpel (HS) assisted (n=26) and conventional cold knife (n=32).
• Exclusion criteria included prior facial nerve weakness, previous parotid surgery, concurrent neck dissection, or total parotidectomy.

Main Results:

• HS parotidectomy significantly reduced operative time (137.3 ± 18.6 min) compared to conventional methods (163.12 ± 21.8 min).
• The incidence of temporary postoperative facial nerve paresis was significantly lower in the HS group (23%) versus the control group (43%).
• No permanent facial nerve paralysis was observed in either group; drain output differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

• Harmonic Scalpel (HS) assisted superficial parotidectomy is a safe and effective technique for benign parotid pathology.
• HS use is associated with decreased surgical duration and a lower rate of temporary facial nerve paresis.
• The findings support the adoption of HS in superficial parotidectomy to enhance patient outcomes.