25. Electrical dissection techniques

High-frequency energy was introduced in surgery to improve dissection and coagulation. The separation of tissues with hemostasis is defined as dissection. Dissection consists of a sensory visual and tactile component, an access component with tissue manipulation and instrument maneuverability. Several mechanisms have been used to separate tissue and enable hemostasis, and these techniques are discussed in this chapter. They all involve some form of physical energy applied to the tissue in question. The amount of energy required for dissection depends on the type and composition of the tissue. If one can achieve careful hemostasis and is tissue-selective without causing unintended tissue damage, the ideal dissection technique can be achieved.