Treatment of hypertrophic palatine tonsils using bipolar radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy (RFITT.)

Abstract

Conclusion: Radiofrequency volume reduction of palatine tonsils is a gentle and safe treatment method in selected patients, which should carefully be considered as an alternative to tonsillectomy or tonsillotomy.

Objectives: The aim of this study was the evaluation of bipolar radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy (RFITT) compared to standard blunt dissection tonsillectomy (TE) for the volume reduction of palatine tonsils in chronic tonsillar hypertrophy.

Patients and methods: A total of 137 patients (98 children) were treated in two groups in a prospective controlled, randomized clinical trial. The TE group underwent standard tonsillectomy using blunt dissection. The RFITT group underwent interstitial RF ablation. Perioperative blood loss and duration of surgery were monitored. Tonsil volume reduction in the RFITT group was measured by sonography. Postoperative pain, as well as difficulty in swallowing and speaking, were evaluated using visual analog scales.

Results: In the RFITT group, we found an average tonsil volume reduction of 40%, at about 3 weeks after treatment. Postoperative pain, swallowing and speaking difficulties, and perioperative blood loss were significantly lower, and the duration of surgery was significantly shorter (all p<0.05) in the RFITT group. Preservation of the treatment results was monitored until 6 months after treatment, with no after effects during this time period.