Modified device for easy infiltration of tumescent solution in liposuction.
BACKGROUND
Managing large amounts of tumescent fluid may be cumbersome and a waste of time. To solve the problems of an easy, quick, reliable, and cost-effective jet infiltration technique for large tumescent volumes, the authors describe a simple handpiece that connects with standard air-driven wound irrigation systems. On the basis of former observations with a modified irrigation system previously published by our group, a newly developed multi-use irrigation infiltration cannula handpiece was used successfully for 63 patients without any complications.


METHODS
An infiltration cannula with a handpiece and standard luer lock adapter that connects with an air-driven wound irrigation system required for liposuction procedures was developed and clinically tested.


RESULTS
Between 2003 and 2005, a total of 63 patients with moderate- to large-volume suction (1,500-4,500 ml) were treated by subcutaneous infiltration of tumescent solution using the air-driven irrigation system and the newly developed infiltration cannula. The device proved to be reliable and efficient. No disconnection of the system was seen. The time savings and ease of use were most noticeable in cases of larger volume infiltration. Wiring and tubing of this device was facilitated in any case. No adverse side effects were noted.


CONCLUSIONS
A simple infiltration cannula system that connects with standard wound irrigation systems facilitates the liposuction procedure in terms of cost effectiveness and time savings.
Horch
Raymund E
RE
Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University of Erlangen Nürnberg, Krankenhausstrasse 12, D-91054, Erlangen, Germany. horchrd@chir.imed.uni-erlangen.de
D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D015187:Lipectomy / Q000295:instrumentation*