The Harmonic^® system represents a robust line of ultrasonic surgical devices for both laparoscopic and open procedures. These devices offer simultaneous cutting and coagulation, minimal lateral thermal damage, minimal charring and desiccation, and minimal smoke for improved visibility. Unlike lasers or surgical devices, Harmonic instruments cut and coagulate (seal tissue) at lower temperatures, thus minimizing lateral thermal tissue damage. In turn, this results in less burning, or charring, of the tissue compared to electrocautery. Harmonic devices have been used in over 6 ½ million surgical procedures worldwide to date in a variety of general surgery, gynecologic, colorectal, otolaryngology, urologic, and vessel harvesting procedures.

Learn more about the history of Harmonic devices in the Virtual OR to your right.

The Harmonic family of surgical devices includes more than 45 devices available in a variety of shear and blade configurations. Among those are the Harmonic FOCUS™, designed specifically for fine and delicate surgeries such as thryoidectomies, the Harmonic WAVE^®, specifically designed for open colorectal and open gynecologic surgeries, and the Harmonic ACE^® family of shears and blades, designed for a wide range of surgical applications.

Harmonic technology offers surgeons several important benefits, including:

• Minimal lateral thermal tissue damage
• Simultaneous cutting and coagulation of soft tissue and vessels
• Minimal charring and desiccation
• Fewer instrument exchanges to simplify procedure steps*
• No electricity passes to, or through, the patient
• Safer dissection near vital structures^†
• Minimal smoke for improved visibility in the surgical field^†

*Compared to clamp, cut, and tie.
^†Compared to electrocautery.

Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. develops and markets advanced medical devices for minimally invasive and open surgical procedures. The company focuses on procedure-enabling devices for the interventional diagnosis and treatment of conditions in general and bariatric surgery, as well as gastrointestinal health, gynecology, surgical oncology, plastic surgery, and orthopedics.  Products include the ENDOPATH^® XCEL™ Access System, the CONTOUR ^® Curved Cutter Stapler, Harmonic® ultrasonic cutting and coagulating surgical devices, and the MAMMOTOME^® Biopsy System for diagnosis of early-stage breast cancer. More information can be found at www.ethiconendo.com.