Use of the Harmonic Scalpel™ in open abdominoperineal surgery for rectal carcinoma

Abstract

We describe a technique of open abdominoperineal resection with the use of the Harmonic Scalpel in seven patients. Using this instrument we dissected all pelvic vessels, including the middle hemorrhoidal artery, with no subsequent bleeding. In addition, we divided the levator ani muscles completely in the abdominal procedure alone.