The laser-assisted scalpel: initial clinical evaluation of its use in gynecologic endoscopy.

The laser-assisted scalpel is a new disposable laparoscopic instrument that improves the precision and control of fiberoptic laser energy delivery and provides a means of tactile probing and blunt tissue dissection. The instrument simplifies laparoscopic technique by providing the surgeon with the ability to place tissue under tension when firing the laser, thus minimizing the need to exchange instruments. We describe the use and our impressions of the laser-assisted scalpel for six common human laparoscopic gynecologic procedures performed in 68 patients.