Randomized trial of suturing versus electrosurgical bipolar vessel sealing in abdominal hysterectomy

Background: Hemorrhage is one of the most frequent complications that occur during surgery, adequate hemostatic techniques are essential during surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to compare the conventional suturing with the bipolar clamping and the effects of bipolar vessel sealing in women undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy.Methods: A randomized controlled trial was performed at Smt. Kashibai Navale Medical College and General Hospital, Maharashtra, India. One hundred fourteen patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy for benign conditions were randomized to conventional surgery versus vessel sealing followed up for 06 weeks post operatively.Results: During the first two postoperative days patients operated using bipolar vessel sealing had statistically significantly lower pain scores and blood loss (p<0.01). The surgery time, complication risk and duration of hospitalization were similar between both groups. Patients in the bipolar vessel sealing group resumed their normal daily activities on average 6 days earlier as compared to the conventional group ( p = 0.07). Postoperative pelvic floor function was similar in both the groups.Conclusions: The use of bipolar vessel sealing during abdominal hysterectomy for benign conditions appears to be associated with reduced blood loss, postoperative pain and faster recovery