Abstract
ObjectiveTo compare the postoperative pain following bipolar diathermy scissors tonsillectomy (higher temperature dissection) with harmonic scalpel tonsillectomy (lower temperature dissection).MethodsSixty patients aged 7–40 years planned for tonsillectomy with no other concurrent surgery were randomised to either bipolar diathermy scissors or harmonic scalpel as surgical technique. Blinded to the surgical technique, the patients recorded their pain scores (VAS, 0–10) at awakening and the worst pain level of the day in the postoperative period. All intake of pain medication was also recorded.ResultsNo statistically significant differences were found between the two groups regarding postoperative pain levels or consumption of pain medication.ConclusionUsage of the harmonic scalpel does not render less postoperative pain following tonsillectomy when compared with usage of the bipolar diathermy scissors.
Highlights
Many children and adults are affected by recurrent tonsillitis or tonsillar hypertrophy with upper airway obstruction
Tonsillectomy is often performed as day-case surgery, which increases the demands of a satisfactory postoperative pain control and a low risk of early postoperative bleeding
Post-tonsillectomy pain is a considerable problem leading to suffering and unplanned health-care contact [1]
Summary
Many children and adults are affected by recurrent tonsillitis or tonsillar hypertrophy with upper airway obstruction. In these cases, tonsillectomy is often performed. The surgery causes considerable postoperative pain, often lasting more than a week after the procedure [1]. Tonsillectomy is often performed as day-case surgery, which increases the demands of a satisfactory postoperative pain control and a low risk of early postoperative bleeding. The use of hot dissection techniques is associated with low rates of early postoperative bleeding and are useful in day-case surgery. There are different hot dissection techniques including bipolar diathermy, harmonic scalpel, coblation and monopolar cautery [2]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
