April 6, 2007 — The Juan F. Luis Hospital has acquired a new high-tech surgical device that uses ultrasonic energy for precise cutting and to seal blood vessels. Called a harmonic scalpel, the device is being used by leading surgeons worldwide in both endoscopic and traditional, open surgical procedures and is helping to provide safer and quicker surgeries for V.I. patients.
Dr. Edward J. Miller, a gynecologic surgeon at JFLH, explained, "Because the instrument seals blood vessels while cutting tissue, it decreases the patient's time in the operating room and under anesthesia. I don't need to clamp a blood vessel, then stitch it, and then finally cut it. The harmonic scalpel does it all in a fraction of the time."
He added, "Compared to traditional coagulation techniques (i.e., sealing blood vessels), which use electricity, there is less heat damage and charring of tissue, which results in less pain for the patient after surgery."
According to Miller "No electricity goes to or through the patient. It produces less tissue injury than even a laser."
Vibrating 55,500 times per second, the harmonic scalpel blade coagulates (seals) blood vessels and then cuts the tissue. The precision of cutting and coagulation is controlled by the surgeon by adjusting the power level, blade edge, tissue traction and blade pressure.
Miller has used the instrument at JFLH to perform endoscopic hysterectomy, as well as removal of diseased ovaries. However, the device has many other applications.
"In my field of gynecologic surgery, it can also be used for endometriosis (a uterine disorder), fibroids, ectopic pregnancy, and removal of scar tissue."
He adds, "However, it has been used in the U.S. and worldwide to perform such diverse procedures as tonsillectomy, hemorrhoidectomy and removal of the gall bladder, spleen, or colon. It is a wonderful addition to the operating rooms here."
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