Publication:

Ultrasonic cutting and coagulation device versus conventional diathermy dissection in thyroid surgery: prospective randomized trial

Background The objective of this study was to compare the operative time and postoperative outcomes in thyroid surgeries using the ultrasonic cutting and coagulation device with conventional diathermy dissection.

Methods This study was a prospective, interventional, cohort study. The patients   were randomized in two groups by lottery system. The patients operated with ultrasonic device were labeled as Group A: UCCD and by conventional diathermy as Group B: CDD. The operative time, postoperative drain volume, pain score on VAS and complications were assessed and compared in between the two techniques of surgery.

Results Total of 18 males and 58 females underwent thyroid surgery with age ranging from 17 to 75 years. The operative time in UCCD group was less than CDD group (93.29 min vs. 106.59 min; p=0.06). The cumulative mean amount of drain was found to be less in UCCD group, this difference was statistically significant (77.86 ml vs. 138.05 ml; p=0.00018). The drain was removed earlier in UCCD group, this comparison was also statistically significant (2.49 days in UCCD group vs. 3.02 days in CDD group; p=0.000009). The mean pain score was found to be statistically significant on all the postoperative days in UCCD group.

Conclusions The patients experienced less pain and complication while using UCCD as technique for surgery.  Hence, ultrasonic device using both cutting and coagulating mode at the same time is efficient in hemostasis and lesser post-operative pain, and found to be advantageous.