Purpose: To develop a standardized in vitro model for evaluating efficacy of the microdebriders and to assess whether differences in efficacy exist among available microdebriders. Microdebriders combine suction of tissue with amputation by a hollow rotating cutter. Several models are available, and they are increasingly popular in endoscopic sinus surgery.
Materials and methods: Seven microdebriders were tested by using a standardized soft tissue model (standard fresh raw oysters excluding muscle) and a firm tissue model (standard fresh raw oyster muscle). Efficacy was measured in grams of tissue aspirated per minute. Models to simulate lamina papyracea (eggshell) and dura (egg sac) were also tested with each microdebrider.
Results: Statistically significant differences in soft tissue aspiration were found between most microdebriders ranging from the Xomed (Jacksonville, FL) Straight Shot/4.0-mm blade (147 g/min); the ESSential Shaver (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN)/4.0-mm blade (99 g/min), the Linvatec (Largo, FL)/4.2-mm blade and Dyonics (Burscheid, Germany)/3.5-mm blade and Wizard Plus/4.0-mm blade (range 43 to 46 g/min), followed by the Hummer II (Stryker, Santa Clara, CA) 4.0-mm blade (22.5 g/min), and finally the Xomed Wizard Plus/3.5-mm blade at 16 g/min. The Xomed Straight Shot/4.0 blade was statistically superior to all other microdebriders in efficiency of aspiration in the firm tissue model. All microdebriders were able to abrade a "bony" spicule and intact "dura," whereas none could abrade intact "bone."
Conclusions: Significant differences exist among the various microdebriders in this standardized model of efficiency of aspiration. Additional clinical factors including cost, safety, ease of use, and adaptability should also be considered in the choice of a microdebrider.