Harmonic versus LigaSure hemostasis technique in thyroid surgery: A meta-analysis.

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Comparative Effectiveness Research

Background:

• Harmonic scalpel and LigaSure vessel sealing systems are utilized to potentially decrease surgical time and postoperative complications.
• Open thyroidectomy is a common surgical procedure where these energy devices may offer benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis comparing the Harmonic scalpel and LigaSure vessel sealing systems in open thyroidectomy.
• To evaluate differences in surgical time, postoperative complications, and other relevant parameters.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed across major databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, ISI Web of Science) until December 2015.
• Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Harmonic scalpel and LigaSure in open thyroidectomy were selected.
• Data extraction and statistical analysis were conducted on the included studies.

Main Results:

• Seven RCTs involving 981 patients were included in the meta-analysis.
• The Harmonic scalpel demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in surgical time compared to LigaSure (mean difference: 8.79 min; P=0.02).
• No significant differences were observed between the two systems regarding intraoperative blood loss, postoperative blood loss, hospital stay duration, thyroid weight, or postoperative serum calcium levels.

Conclusions:

• The Harmonic scalpel shows superiority over LigaSure specifically in reducing surgical time during open thyroidectomy.
• Further research may be warranted to explore other potential benefits or differences in specific patient populations or surgical scenarios.