Efficacy and cost effectiveness of harmonic scalpel compared with electrocautery in posterior instrumentation of the spine.

An important paper related to the use of the ultrasonic coagulator. The reduction in blood loss and the necessity for transfusion is impressive. The authors also include a very helpful and detailed economic evaluation of this equipment. After reading this paper I suspect more spinal surgeons will be keen to try the harmonic scalpel.

– Peter Earnshaw