The use of THUNDERBEAT™ in total laparoscopic hysterectomy: comparison with the conventional technique using a bipolar grasper and solely ultrasonic device (SonoSurg™)

Abstract

  Compared with open procedures, laparoscopic surgery is more dependent on the ability of power devices. We performed total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) using THUNDERBEAT™, which integrates ultrasonic vibration and tissue dissection with advanced bipolar energy in a single multifunctional instrument. We compared the operative outcomes of 15 TLHs with THUNDERBEAT™ and 34 TLHs with the conventional technique using a bipolar grasper and solely ultrasonic device (SonoSurg™). We found no significant difference in operative time and blood loss between THUNDERBEAT™ and bipolar grasper and SonoSurg™. However, we realized that THUNDERBEAT™ has better sealing ability and dissection speed than those of other devices. We believe the operative outcomes of TLH will be improved by THUNDERBEAT™ further accumulation of cases.