Ultrasonic dissectors and minimally invasive surgery.

As increasingly complex operations are performed laparoscopically, new problems arise regarding basic tasks such as dissection and retraction. Emerging technologies continue to reduce the technical demands of minimally invasive surgery. Recent studies have shown that ultrasonic devices have the potential to replace electrocautery without compromising safety in minimally invasive operations. With the combination of several functions into a single instrument, significant reductions in operative time and expense are possible and should increase the acceptance of this new technology.