Evaluation of the ultracision ultrasonic dissector in head and neck surgery

The use of the ultrasonic dissector in head and neck surgery is becoming more prevalent. Although initially designed for use in laparoscopic abdominal surgery, potential advantages such as reduced incision size, hemostasis and reduced operative time has helped ultrasonic dissector use become more widespread. The ultraincision allows a simultaneous cut and coagulation at reduced energy, providing a clean, dry operative field with potential reduced risk to adjacent structures. It finds particular application in thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and is becoming more commonly used in parotidectomy, submandibular gland removal, neck dissection, and glossectomy. Ultrasonic dissection technology is continually improving, and with the development of more efficient, ergonomic dissectors, its use is set to increase in the head and neck.