Standard bipolar diathermy forceps vessel ligation is safe in thyroidectomy.
Bleeding is a major complication of thyroid surgery. A retrospective study was performed comparing the outcomes of patients undergoing thyroid surgery where bipolar diathermy with standard bipolar forceps was used for vessel ligation (n = 64) compared to clamp-and-tie (n = 89). Fewer drains were inserted and patients were discharged earlier when standard bipolar diathermy was used for vessel ligation in hemithyroidectomies (P < 0.001). Complication rates were similar. The use of bipolar diathermy with standard forceps for vessel ligation in thyroid surgery has been shown to be as safe and effective as the clamp-and-tie technique, while resulting in earlier patient discharge. This technique is cost-efficient as it provides the advantage of reduced inpatient stay reported using bipolar vessel sealing devices or the harmonic scalpel, but without the additional expense.
Tysome
James Russell
JR
Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medway Maritime Hospital, Gillingham, Kent, UK. jamestysome@yahoo.com
Hassan
Rudaina
R
Davis
Jeremy
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015331:Cohort Studies; D004322:Drainage; D004564:Electrocoagulation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005260:Female; D006488:Hemostasis, Surgical / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008026:Ligation / Q000295:instrumentation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019106:Postoperative Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013965:Thyroidectomy / Q000009:adverse effects; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult