[Tonsillotomy with bipolar coagulation scissors]

Abstract

Background: Nowadays, tonsillotomy is an accepted operating procedure for the diagnosis of tonsillar hyperplasia in small children. Up to now many different techniques such as laser, radiofrequency, coblation or micro-debrider have been used. In this study, for the first time bipolar coagulation scissors were utilized.

Methods: Up to December 2006, a total of 91 children with benign tonsillar hyperplasia were tonsillotomized by bipolar coagulation scissors. Of these 91 children, 38 (average age 74 months) were recruited for this study. Pre-operative and post-operative complaints were documented and the success of the operation was evaluated by the parents.

Results: In more than 90 % of the children, pre-operative complaints had disappeared completely after surgery. The operation was considered by all parents to have been very helpful. With no child did re-tonsillotomy or tonsillectomy have to be performed in the observation interval, which was a maximum of three years.

Conclusion: Tonsillotomy with the bipolar coagulation scissors is a reliable method of surgery in children with tonsillar hypertrophy. This type of scissors offers an ideal combination of dissection and coagulation. From an economic point of view, the bipolar coagulation scissors offer a clear advantage over laser.