The use of the BiClamp​ system in the surgical treatment of thyroid disorders

Introduction The surgical success of thyroid disease depends on the intraoperative bleeding status. The use of vessel ligatures, bipolar forceps, or the use of vessel sealing systems have made thyroid surgery safer. This work reports on surgical experiences in the treatment of thyroid diseases using the BiClamp​ system.

Patients and method Between January 2021 and October 2022, 33 patients – 5 men and 28 women – were surgically treated in the ENT department of the Bethanien hospital in Plauen with the help of the BiClamp​ sealing system (Erbe) as a hemithyroidectomy or complete thyroidectomy with unilateral neck dissection or bilateral neck dissection . The thyroid hormones as well as calcium and parathyroid hormones were determined in all patients. A microscope and intraoperative recurrent nerve monitoring were used in all patients.

Results Most patients have a benign pathologic finding as nodular goiter. A pathologic result was obtained in four patients. A papillary thyroid carcinoma in two patients, a follicular thyroid carcinoma in one patient and a squamous cell carcinoma in one patient. All patients did not require the use of ligatures or vascular clips during surgery. The amount of blood in the surgical suction device was measured at the end of the operation and was less than 50 ml. There was no massive intraoperative bleeding. No surgical revision was required.

Conclusion The use of blood vessel sealing devices is an effective, convenient and safe method to stop bleeding during thyroid surgery.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 May 2023