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European Spine Journal

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01-08-2014 | Original Article

Blood loss and operative duration using monopolar electrosurgery versus ultrasound scissors for surgical preparation during thoracoscopic ventral spondylodesis: results of a randomized, blinded, controlled trial

Authors: Christina Otto, Gereon Schiffer, Thorsten Tjardes, Henning Kunter, Peer Eysel, Thomas Paffrath

Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 8/2014

Abstract

Purpose

Monopolar electrosurgery is the gold standard for surgical preparation in thoracoscopic spine procedures. However, use of ultrasound scissors could decrease blood loss, accelerate the preparation time and improve patient safety, while minimizing operative costs. This trial compares both preparation techniques for ventral thoracoscopic spondylodesis.

Methods

The study design is an open, prospective, randomized, and double-blinded two-armed clinical trial performed in two centres. Forty-one patients with vertebral body fractures from T10 to L2 were included. Primary endpoint: preparation time. Secondary endpoints: blood loss, organ injuries, duration of hospitalization.

Results

Primary and secondary endpoints did not differ significantly between groups (p level 0.05). Increased blood loss (150 ml or more) was eliminated with ultrasound scissors (p = 0.0014).

Conclusions

Primary and secondary endpoints did not differ significantly between the two preparation techniques. The use of either ultrasound scissors or electric scalpel offers safe and effective preparation for thoracoscopic spine surgery.

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Title: Blood loss and operative duration using monopolar electrosurgery versus ultrasound scissors for surgical preparation during thoracoscopic ventral spondylodesis: results of a randomized, blinded, controlled trial
Authors: Christina Otto
Gereon Schiffer
Thorsten Tjardes
Henning Kunter
Peer Eysel
Thomas Paffrath
Publication date: 01-08-2014
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Spine Journal / Issue 8/2014
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-014-3303-1

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Blood loss and operative duration using monopolar electrosurgery versus ultrasound scissors for surgical preparation during thoracoscopic ventral spondylodesis: results of a randomized, blinded, controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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