| 0205-376 Flynn
Flynn TC.
Powered liposuction: an evaluation of currently available instrumentation. Dermatol Surg. 2002 May;28(5):376-82. PMID: 12030867
Department of Dermatology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New
Orleans, Louisiana, USA. flynn@caryskincenter.com
BACKGROUND: Over the past several years, powered liposuction instruments have
become available to the dermatologic surgeon. These instruments all move the
cannula forward and backward 2-12 mm with rapidity. This motion simulates the
standard human movement of the cannula and facilitates movement through the
tissue. Powered liposuction may help to prevent surgeon fatigue and has recently
been shown to aid in the efficacy of fat removal. OBJECTIVE: To compare and
contrast currently available powered liposuction instruments, to obtain
objective engineering data on the instruments, and to compare the instruments
when used on actual liposuction cases. METHODS: Five currently available powered
liposuction systems were evaluated by the author. Each instrument was used with
a 3 mm dual side port cannula on patients undergoing tumescent liposuction. An
independent engineering firm, who collected objective measurements such as
weight, stroke force, temperature, and vibration measurements on the
instruments, evaluated the units. Noise measurements were obtained. RESULTS:
Each of the five systems showed advantages and disadvantages. Important issues
were the size and weight of the units, as well as whether they were driven
electrically or pneumatically. Stroke force is variable (range 9.5-30 pounds).
The noise of the units ranged between 60 and 87 dB. Vibration measurements
varied from instrument to instrument. Units produced a variable amount of heat
ranging from 77 degrees F to 102 degrees F. Most instruments are autoclavable,
and one system is disposable. Build quality and reliability varied with the
instrument. CONCLUSION: Instruments for powered liposuction have emerged in the
last 2 years, with each instrument having distinct advantages and disadvantages.
This article reviews five currently available powered liposuction instruments
and presents objective measurements as well as the author's experience using the
instruments.
Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
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