Efficacy of Aquamantys for Reducing Transfusions With Anterior Supine Intermuscular Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty

Primary THA via the ASI approach will be performed using the Aquamantys Malleable Bipolar Sealer. The Aquamantys is a bipolar device that combines radio-frequency energy and saline to gently reach targeted tissue and provide a biomechanical seal. The saline acts as a conduit to allow the energy to penetrate the tissue from 1 to 2 mm where the collagen is transformed thus providing the seal. The saline also helps cool the tissue which allows for gentle handling of tissue, eliminating the black char that is a port for infection. The surgeon uses the Aquamantys to assist in tissue dissection, cauterize vessels, and to pre-treat fat pad in front of capsule prior to excision, to treat the entire anterior hip capsule prior to excision, treat oozing bone surfaces not covered by an implant.

Primary total hip arthroplasty via an anterior supine intermuscular approach will be performed with the assistance of standard electrocautery. The electrocautery is used in tissue dissection and to cauterize bleeding vessels.