Comparison of Histological Effects of LigaSure and Bipolar Cautery on the Submandibular Gland in a Rat Model
AESTHETIC SURGERY JOURNAL, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1093/asj/sjag127
- Dergi Adı: AESTHETIC SURGERY JOURNAL
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO)
- Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Background Submandibular gland prominence is increasingly recognized as a limiting factor in achieving optimal cervicomental contour. Although energy-based devices are widely used during glandular procedures, their tissue-level effects remain insufficiently defined. Objectives The aim of this study was to compare the histological impact of a vessel-sealing system and conventional bipolar electrocautery on submandibular gland tissue in an experimental model. Methods Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups (LigaSure, bipolar electrocautery, and cold dissection control; n = 8 per group). Partial glandular excision was performed under standardized conditions. Tissue specimens were processed for histological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Edema, hemorrhage, vascular injury, necrosis, inflammation, and ductal narrowing were assessed using a semiquantitative scoring system. Nonparametric statistical methods were applied for intergroup comparisons. Results Both energy-based modalities produced significantly greater tissue alterations compared with controls (P < .05). Bipolar electrocautery demonstrated higher levels of inflammation, edema, hemorrhage, and necrosis relative to LigaSure (P < .05), whereas vascular injury showed no statistically significant difference. In contrast, ductal narrowing was significantly more pronounced in the LigaSure group (P < .05). Overall, the most marked differences between modalities were observed in the inflammatory response and ductal changes. Conclusions Distinct patterns of tissue injury are associated with different energy modalities. LigaSure appears to limit collateral tissue damage while exerting a greater effect on ductal structures, whereas bipolar electrocautery is associated with more extensive inflammatory and hemorrhagic changes. These findings provide experimental insight that may inform energy device selection in submandibular gland (SMG) surgery, although further studies are needed to clarify their clinical implications.