Clipless laparoscopic cholecystectomy by ultrasonic dissection.

Background: Ultrasonically activated devices have been used in gallbladder dissection in the laparoscopic cholecystectomy with encouraging results. The aim of this study was to compare between the safety and efficacy of the harmonic shears and the commonly used clip and cautery technique in achieving safe closure and division of the cystic duct in the laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods: In this prospective study, 120 patients with symptomatic gallstone disease were randomly assigned to either the harmonic scalpel laparoscopic cholecystectomy group (HS group=60 patients) where closure and division of the cystic duct was achieved solely by the harmonic shears or the clip and cautery laparoscopic cholecystectomy group (C&C group=60 patients).

Results: Neither minor nor major bile leaks were encountered in either group. Similarly, no bile-duct injuries were encountered in the present study. The incidence of gallbladder perforation was statistically significantly higher in the C&C group, compared to the HS group (30 vs. 10%, respectively; P=0.002). The median operative time was statistically significantly shorter in the HS group than in the C&C group (32 vs. 40 minutes, respectively; P=0.000). No statistically significant difference was found in the incidence of postoperative complications between both groups.

Conclusions: The harmonic shears are as safe and effective as the commonly used clip and cautery technique in achieving safe closure and division of the cystic duct in the laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Further, it provides a superior alternative to the currently used high-frequency monopolar technology in terms of shorter operative time and lower incidence of gallbladder perforation.