Ultrasonic surgical procedures, also known as ultrasonic surgery or ultrasonically activated device (USAD) surgery, refer to the use of high-frequency sound waves in surgical applications. In these procedures, a handpiece that contains a piezoelectric crystal is used to generate ultrasonic vibrations, which are then transmitted to a surgical instrument such as a scalpel or scissors. The resulting mechanical energy is able to cut and coagulate tissue with minimal thermal damage, allowing for precise dissection and reduced blood loss during surgery. This technique is commonly used in various surgical specialties including orthopedics, urology, gynecology, and general surgery.
In medicine, a surgical operation, or simply "operation," refers to a medical procedure in which a doctor manually corrects an injury, disease, or abnormality using invasive techniques, such as instruments, cameras, or machines that assist in the visualization and treatment of internal structures. This may involve cutting, scraping, or removing tissue, bones, or other bodily components, and often requires anesthesia to prevent pain and discomfort during the procedure. The specific type of operation is determined by the nature and location of the problem being addressed.