Comparison of Conventional Bipolar Electrocautery and Ultrasonic Harmonic Scalpel in Colorectal Cancer Surgeries

Background and objective Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy and the second most deadly cancer worldwide. Powered equipment has transformed modern surgery, revolutionizing the delicacy, precision, and accuracy of many surgeries. The safety and efficacy of tissue dissection and artery sealing in colorectal surgery remain highly debatable. With the increased use of minimally invasive procedures in colon and rectal surgery, energy devices for tissue dissection and vascular sealing have become widely used. In light of this, we aimed at comparing the use of bipolar electrocautery and harmonic scalpel in CRC surgeries. Methods Our study was a hospital-based comparative study conducted at our tertiary care hospital. Fifty patients were divided equally into two groups by block randomization, and bipolar electrocautery was used in one group, and harmonic scalpel was used in the second group during surgery. The mean operative time, blood loss, and hospital stay were calculated in both groups. The comparison between bipolar electrocautery and harmonic scalpel was evaluated using independent t-tests. Results The mean operative time, blood loss, and hospital stay were significantly lower in the harmonic scalpel group than in the electrocautery group. The results were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion Based on our findings, the harmonic scalpel is a better energy source when compared to bipolar electrocautery in CRC surgeries.