Ultrasonic surgical system (SONOPET®) for microsurgical removal of brain tumors

Abstract

We use the ultrasonic surgical system in the treatment of brain tumors such as meningioma, neurinoma, glioma, etc. SONOPET is a useful and safe ultrasonic surgical system for microsurgery. The outer diameter of the tip of ultrasonic surgical systems is usually 2.5 mm and the inner diameter 2.0 mm. However, the outer diameter of the SONOPET is 1.9 mm and the inner diameter 1.5 mm. Even in a deep site, because of the small diameter tip, the operation can be done easily. Further, the very thin outer diameter of the tip flue, 5 mm, makes it easy to operate in the deep site. The maximum amplitude of the distal end tip, which can be an important factor in tissue fragmentation, is 240 microns. It is said that the thinner tip breaks down easily, but by reducing metal fatigue the lifetime of the tip is longer and a larger amplitude can be obtained. As a result, hard tissue fragmentation becomes available even with a thinner tip. The handpiece is very light in weight, approximately 110 g, helping to reduce operator fatigue when in long term use. The weight is approximately one-half of conventional types. Because of the high efficiency of the electricity/vibration energy conversion rate, the handpiece does not heat up during the operation. Also, since water cooling is not necessary, the procedures before and after use are simple. Changing the handpiece during the operation is also easy.