Technology and clinical application of ultrasonic dissection

The implementation of UltraCision (The Harmonic Scalpel) can be seen as a milestone in the development of surgery. Ultrasound is now used for tissue cutting and/or simultaneous vessel sealing and transection. No electric current passes through the patient. Thus the typical complications associated with electrocautery can be avoided. This technology was primarily developed for videoscopic surgery and then successfully transferred to all branches of open surgery. The clean and blood-saving dissection technology and the ability to dissect very close to sensitive structures in oncological surgery are highly beneficial for patients. The development of new blades and multifunctional shears has further enhanced both practicability and ergonomics. UltraCision can now be used for the complete surgical spectrum, both in open and in laparoscopic surgery.