Effect of the Ultrasonic Bone Scalpel on Blood Loss During Pediatric Spinal Deformity Correction Surgery.

Study Design: Retrospective cohort.

Objective: Determine the effect of the ultrasonic bone scalpel (UBS) on intraoperative blood loss and surgical time.

Summary Of Background Data: The UBS has shown beneficial effects in limiting blood loss in spinal surgery, but no study has examined its effect in patients with neuromuscular scoliosis.

When Does Intraoperative Blood Loss Occur During Pediatric Scoliosis Correction?

Background: The purpose of our study was to assess the relationship between amount of blood loss and surgical stage in pediatric patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion for deformity correction to determine: (1) when the highest rate of blood loss occurred; (2) what percentage of total blood loss occurred during deformity correction and closure; and (3) how to predict remaining blood loss during a procedure. Blood loss following exposure and placement of the final pedicle screw is often underestimated, which may result in lack of sufficient blood product availability. Knowledge of the rate of blood loss plays an important role in intraoperative decision making, facilitating communication with the anesthesia team, and improving patient safety.