[Ultrasound scalpel--initial experiences with use in laparoscopic surgery]

Worldwide the use of monopolar electrocautery is preferred in laparoscopic surgery. Beside the risk of thermal injury the technique involves some inconveniences for the surgeon. The ultrasonic scalpel offers theoretical advantages, which were clinically studied in a series of 443 operations. The absence of smoke, the reduced need for cleaning of the optic and the lack of complications due to the device lead us to believe that the ultrasonic scalpel is superior to electrocautery especially for beginners in laparoscopic surgery. The costs of the system--DM 150 per patient in our prospective series--are tolerable.