Our Summary

This study tested the effectiveness of a new device used in laparoscopic colon surgeries. The device, called Harmonic ACE+7 Shears with Advanced Hemostasis Mode, uses ultrasound energy to cut and seal blood vessels up to 7mm wide. The researchers wanted to see how well it worked in real surgeries, specifically when used to cut and seal a large blood vessel called the inferior mesenteric artery.

They tracked 40 adult patients who were having elective colon surgery where this large blood vessel needed to be cut. They were particularly interested in whether the device could seal the vessel in one go, without the need for any additional devices or products to stop the bleeding. They also looked at any side effects that might have been caused by the device or the procedure, and followed up with patients for about 4 weeks after their surgery.

The results were very promising. In all 40 patients, the device was able to seal the blood vessel with a single activation. No additional measures were needed to stop the bleeding. The time it took to cut the vessel was on average about 22 seconds. Only one patient experienced a potential side effect, postoperative anemia, that might have been related to the device.

In short, this device seems to be very effective at cutting and sealing large blood vessels during laparoscopic colon surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the Harmonic ACE+7 Shears with Advanced Hemostasis Mode?
  2. How effective was the device in sealing the blood vessel during laparoscopic colon surgery?
  3. Were there any side effects caused by the device or the procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip that a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic colectomy using the Harmonic ACE+7 Shears with Advanced Hemostasis Mode is that this device has been shown to effectively cut and seal large blood vessels with minimal side effects. Patients can feel reassured that this technology can help reduce the risk of bleeding during surgery and potentially lead to a faster recovery. It is important for patients to follow their doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic colectomy include those with conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and severe gastrointestinal bleeding. Laparoscopic colectomy is often recommended for patients who are otherwise healthy and able to tolerate surgery, as it is less invasive and has a quicker recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

Timeline

Before Laparoscopic Colectomy:

  • Patient will undergo preoperative evaluation, including physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies.
  • Patient will be instructed to follow a clear liquid diet and bowel preparation to clean out the colon.
  • Patient will be given general anesthesia before the surgery.

During Laparoscopic Colectomy:

  • Surgeon will make small incisions in the abdomen and insert a laparoscope to view the colon.
  • Surgeon will use the Harmonic ACE+7 Shears with Advanced Hemostasis Mode to cut and seal the inferior mesenteric artery.
  • Surgeon will remove the diseased portion of the colon and reconnect the healthy segments.
  • Surgery typically lasts 2-4 hours.

After Laparoscopic Colectomy:

  • Patient will wake up in the recovery room and may stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring.
  • Patient will be given pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection.
  • Patient will gradually resume eating solid foods and start walking to aid in recovery.
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about laparoscopic colectomy with the Harmonic ACE+7 Shears with Advanced Hemostasis Mode device include:

  1. How does the Harmonic ACE+7 Shears with Advanced Hemostasis Mode device work and why is it being recommended for my surgery?
  2. What are the potential benefits of using this device compared to traditional methods of cutting and sealing blood vessels during laparoscopic colectomy?
  3. Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with using this device during my surgery?
  4. Will the use of this device affect my recovery time or postoperative care in any way?
  5. How many times has this device been used in laparoscopic colon surgeries at this facility, and what has been the overall success rate?
  6. Are there any alternative devices or methods that could be used instead of the Harmonic ACE+7 Shears with Advanced Hemostasis Mode device for my surgery?
  7. What additional follow-up care or monitoring will be needed after my surgery, specifically related to the use of this device?
  8. How experienced is the surgical team with using this device, and what measures are in place to ensure its safe and effective use during my surgery?
  9. Can you provide me with any additional information or resources about the Harmonic ACE+7 Shears with Advanced Hemostasis Mode device and its use in laparoscopic colectomy procedures?
  10. Are there any specific precautions or instructions I need to follow before or after my surgery related to the use of this device?

Reference

Authors: Plasencia G, Van der Speeten K, Hinoul P, Kelch JA, Batiller J, Severin KS, Schwiers ML, Rockall T. Journal: JSLS. 2016 Apr-Jun;20(2):e2016.00010. doi: 10.4293/JSLS.2016.00010. PMID: 27186065