A simple method for trimming of the lesser and greater curvature using "Bovie" in gastric cancer surgery

Background/Aims: The electrosurgical device ("Bovie") is widely used in various surgical fields. The aim of this study was to introduce a simple method only using Bovie in the trimming of soft tissues along the lesser and greater curvature in gastric cancer surgery. Methodology: Thirty three patients with gastric adenocarcinoma who underwent distal gastrectomy were enrolled in this study between May 2008 and July 2008. Results: There was no significant difference in the total number of vessels along the lesser and greater curvature between the two groups. The time required (sec) for clearing of the soft tissue along the lesser and greater curvature is significantly shorter in the Bovie group than conventional group. The mean blood loss of Bovie group was 142 ± 52 (ml) and 159 ±44 (ml) in the conventional group, and there was no significant blood loss between the two groups (p= 0.333). Postoperative complications occurred in 6 (18.2 %) patients, including one pneum0onia, three wound infection, one postoperative ileus, and two intra-abdominal abscesses. Conclusions: A simple method using Bovie in the trimming of the lesser and greater curvatures is a feasible and convenient method that can shorten operation time in gastric cancer surgery.