The advantages of the Harmonic Scalpel for the harvesting of radial arteries for coronary artery bypass.

BACKGROUND

Improvements in replacement vessel harvesting techniques and antispasmodic agents since the 1970s have led to a resurgence of interest in the radial artery (RA) as a conduit for coronary revascularization.

METHODS

This randomized study compared the Ultra Cision Harmonic Scalpel (HS) (Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., Cincinnati, OH) and the cold steel scalpel (CSS) for harvesting radial arteries to be used in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures. Men and non-pregnant women, aged 21 to 79 years, with myocardial ischemia or coronary stenosis who were scheduled to undergo coronary bypass were enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

Harvesting of the radial artery by the Harmonic Scalpel required a significantly lower number of clips to control bleeding. There was no significant difference between the times required to harvest the artery with either device. There were no complications, malfunctions, or serious adverse events associated with the use of either device.

CONCLUSIONS

The Harmonic Scalpel provides excellent control of bleeding compared to the cold steel scalpel, and its use permits bleeding to be controlled without the need for potentially damaging electrocautery. No clinically significant adverse events were associated with the use of the Harmonic Scalpel.