title: Microdebrider complications in laryngologic and airway surgery.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  There is a paucity of experience in the published literature documenting complications of powered surgical instruments in laryngologic surgery. Our objective was to ascertain the nature of these complications from expert opinion and review of the literature, and to recommend strategies to decrease major complications.
  
  
  METHODS
  Review of the literature and an e-mail survey.
  
  
  METHODS
  A literature review of microdebrider complications in laryngologic surgery was conducted using PubMed and Ovid (1985 to 2013), along with an analysis of a confidential e-mail survey of various surgeons in selected high-volume laryngologic centers.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Powered instrumentation is frequently used in the operating room for larynx and airway surgery. The microdebrider can improve efficiency, lower costs, and shorten operative times. However, use of the microdebrider has the potential for serious complications in the larynx and airway. Great care must be taken when utilizing the microdebrider in laryngologic surgery. Significant complications including major vocal fold scar, airway compromise, severe hemorrhage, and unintentional tissue loss have occurred.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The microdebrider is a popular and valuable tool for the otolaryngologist. A thorough knowledge of the instrument and its potential complications will improve surgical outcomes and may prevent complications. Awareness of the risks and surgeon experience with use of the microdebrider will allow the surgeon to successfully utilize this device in a safe and effective manner.
  
  
  METHODS
  5.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia.
authors.forename: Rebecca J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Howell
authors.forename: Nancy L
authors.initials: NL
authors.lastname: Solowski
authors.forename: Peter C
authors.initials: PC
authors.lastname: Belafsky
authors.forename: Mark C
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Courey
authors.forename: Albert L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Merati
authors.forename: Clark A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Rosen
authors.forename: Paul M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Weinberger
authors.forename: Gregory N
authors.initials: GN
authors.lastname: Postma
mesh_terms: D000402:Airway Obstruction / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D003646:Debridement / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D004867:Equipment Design; D004868:Equipment Failure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007818:Laryngeal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D007828:Laryngoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013525:Surgical Instruments
keywords: Microdebrider; airway surgery; complications; laryngology; powered instrumentation