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Piezoelectric technology in otolaryngology, and head and neck surgery: a review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  17 April 2017

C Meller  and
T E Havas
C Meller*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital and Sydney Hospital, Sydney, Australia
T E Havas
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital and Sydney Hospital, Sydney, Australia Division of Surgery, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Catherine Meller, PO Box 388, Willoughby, NSW 2068, Australia Fax: +61 (02) 9369 4463 E-mail: cath_meller@yahoo.com.au
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Abstract

Background:

Piezoelectric technology has existed for many years as a surgical tool for precise removal of soft tissue and bone. The existing literature regarding its use specifically for otolaryngology, and head and neck surgery was reviewed.

Methods:

The databases Medline, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Embase and Cambridge Scientific Abstracts were searched. Studies were selected and reviewed based on relevance.

Results:

Sixty studies were identified and examined for evidence of benefits and disadvantages of piezoelectric surgery and its application in otolaryngology. The technique was compared with traditional surgical methods, in terms of intra-operative bleeding, histology, learning curve, operative time and post-operative pain.

Conclusion:

Piezoelectric technology has been successfully employed, particularly in otology and skull base surgery, where its specific advantages versus traditional drills include a lack of ‘blunting’ and tissue selectivity. Technical advantages include ease of use, a short learning curve and improved visibility. Its higher cost warrants consideration given that clinically significant improvements in operative time and morbidity have not yet been proven. Further studies may define the evolving role of piezoelectric surgery in otolaryngology, and head and neck surgery.

Keywords

UltrasonicsPiezosurgeryCurettageOtolaryngologyRhinoplasty

Information

Type
Review Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 131 , Supplement S2: ASOHNS Supplement , July 2017 , pp. S12 - S18
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2017 

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