(Here a patient undergo nasal surgery using microdebrider in Jubilee Hospital, Trivandrum, Kerala, South India.)
Microdebrider surgery, a technology with its roots in the rotary vacuum shaver introduced by Urban in 1968 for removal of acoustic neuromas, is now being successfully utilized for many different types ENT procedures.
The microdebrider is a tool consisting of three key components. The console, controlled by a foot pedal, determines the speed and direction of the rotating blade. Blades can be rotated in forward, reverse, or oscillating modes at various speeds.
The hand piece controls the blade and integrates suction to allow for rapid and simultaneous removal of debris. It is compatible with blades of various sizes and configurations. Suction tubing connects to the hand piece.
The blade is a hollow metal tube with a port for suction. Blades can be smooth or serrated and are available in various sizes. This design allows for simultaneous cutting and removal of tissue. The device is designed for one-time use and is disposable.
The microdebrider works by employing suction to pull tissue into the aperture of the blade, which cuts the tissue. Suction is used to simultaneously remove tissue-and blood-from the site, allowing much better visibility for the surgeon. The tool can be easily operated with just one hand, allowing the operator more freedom of movement.
The only true risk identified by investigators involved with the use of the microdebrider is the possibility of inadvertent resection of normal tissue, and potential injury to the patient as a result.
Use of the endoscope has made sinus surgery much less traumatic, eliminating the need for external incisions. Use of the microdebrider can allow for even more delicate tissue removal, reducing the need for separate grasping and cutting instruments.
(Nasal surgery using microdebrider is used here for ethmoid Polypectomy and FESS.)
