Use of Vessel-Sealing Devices during Vaginal Hysterectomy.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the proper use of vessel-sealing devices during vaginal hysterectomy.

DESIGN: Educational video (Canadian Task Force classification level III).

SETTING: University hospital.

INTERVENTION: The video reviews the principles on the use of energy in minimally invasive surgery. We focus on how vessel-sealing devices function and the benefits of their use in difficult vaginal hysterectomy. The video explains the 2 major types of complications, inadequate vessel sealing and undesired thermal injury, and demonstrates techniques to avoid these complications.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Laboratory, intraoperative, and cadaveric recordings demonstrate proper use and the complications that may arise in the setting of improper use.

CONCLUSION: Vessel-sealing devices may be a useful tool for surgeons performing vaginal hysterectomy. This video demonstrates their use and underlines the importance of understanding the principles of energy devices and their proper usage in surgery.