Combination of CUSA and neodymium:YAG laser for canine partial nephrectomy

A Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA) was used to isolate and skeletonize parenchymal renal vessels during 20 partial nephrectomies performed on 10 dogs. After isolation of the renal vessels, hemostasis was obtained by direct application of neodymium:YAG laser energy. Blood loss and total operative time were reduced compared to a control series of partial nephrectomies performed with a scalpel. The combination of Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator plus a Nd:YAG laser appears to offer advantages compared to either modality used alone or to standard techniques for partial nephrectomy.