Our Summary

This study evaluated different tools used during colorectal surgery to control bleeding. They looked at traditional methods, as well as newer tools like LigaSure™, Thunderbeat®, and Harmonic®. The researchers found that the newer tools were generally better than the traditional methods. They tend to cause less bleeding and shorten the surgery time, as well as the length of the hospital stay. LigaSure™, for instance, was found to be the best at reducing surgery time and hospital stay, while Harmonic® had the lowest rate of wound complications. However, the study also found that no one tool was the best at everything. The researchers note that more studies are needed, as the ones they looked at didn’t have enough data to compare every tool for every outcome.

FAQs

  1. What tools were evaluated in this study on colorectal surgery?
  2. How did the newer tools such as LigaSure™, Thunderbeat®, and Harmonic® compare to traditional methods in controlling bleeding during colorectal surgery?
  3. Did the study find one tool to be superior in all aspects during colorectal surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about colorectal surgery is to ask about the tools and techniques that will be used during the procedure. Patients can inquire about newer tools like LigaSure™, Thunderbeat®, and Harmonic® which have been shown to reduce bleeding and shorten recovery time. It’s important for patients to be informed about the options available and to discuss with their surgeon which tools may be best for their specific case. Additionally, patients should follow their doctor’s pre and post-operative instructions closely to optimize their recovery and healing process.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for colorectal surgery include those with conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), diverticulitis, colorectal polyps, and other benign or malignant tumors in the colon or rectum. Additionally, patients with severe cases of hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse may also be candidates for colorectal surgery. Ultimately, the decision to undergo colorectal surgery is based on the individual patient’s specific condition, symptoms, and overall health status.

Timeline

Before colorectal surgery:

  • Patient meets with their healthcare provider to discuss the need for surgery and potential risks and benefits
  • Patient undergoes preoperative testing, such as blood work, imaging studies, and possibly a colonoscopy
  • Patient may need to make dietary and lifestyle changes in preparation for surgery
  • Patient may need to stop taking certain medications prior to surgery
  • Patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including when to stop eating and drinking

After colorectal surgery:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room for any complications
  • Patient may require pain medication to manage discomfort
  • Patient is encouraged to start moving around as soon as possible to prevent blood clots and promote healing
  • Patient may need to follow a specific diet to aid in recovery and prevent complications
  • Patient may need to care for a surgical incision and follow instructions for wound care
  • Patient may need to attend follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor recovery and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with colorectal surgery?
  2. How long will the surgery take and how long will I need to stay in the hospital?
  3. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and what kind of post-operative care will be needed?
  5. Will I need to make any changes to my diet or lifestyle before or after the surgery?
  6. How will the surgery specifically benefit my condition and improve my quality of life?
  7. What are the success rates of the different tools used during colorectal surgery, such as LigaSure™, Thunderbeat®, and Harmonic®?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing surgery?
  9. How often do you perform colorectal surgery and what is your experience with using the different surgical tools?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing colorectal surgery?

Reference

Authors: Charalambides M, Afxentiou T, Pellino G, Powar MP, Fearnhead NS, Davies RJ, Wheeler J, Simillis C. Journal: Tech Coloproctol. 2022 Jun;26(6):413-423. doi: 10.1007/s10151-022-02586-0. Epub 2022 Feb 7. PMID: 35132505