Thermal welding technology vs ligasure tonsillectomy: a comparative study

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the study was to compare and assess parameters related to thermal welding tonsillectomy (TWT) vs ligasure tonsillectomy (LT).

Study design: This was a prospective randomized study.

Method: A prospective study was conducted on 143 consecutive adult patients undergoing tonsillectomy. Indications included chronic tonsillitis and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Patients undergoing adenoidectomy or any procedure together with tonsillectomy and patients with peritonsillar abscess history or bleeding disorders were excluded. Patients were randomly assigned to either the TWT or LT group. Intraoperative bleeding, operative time, postoperative pain using a visual analogue scale, and complication rates were evaluated.

Results: There was no measurable intraoperative bleeding in any group. No significant difference regarding mean operative time was noted. Mean postoperative pain score was significantly lower in the TWT group. Late postoperative hemorrhage was noted in 1 subject of the TWT and 2 subjects of the LT group. Mild uvula edema was significantly lower in the TWT group.

Conclusion: Both TWT and LT procedures provide sufficient hemostasis and reduced operative time, although lower postoperative pain and mild uvula edema were noted in TWT procedures. Furthermore, since both methods use single-use instruments, they provide safety against diseases such as Creutzfeld-Jakob disease.