S113: Tonsillectomy

Abstract

Management of disease of the palatine tonsils has primarily been performed by ENT surgeons. However, as more oral and maxillofacial surgeons expand their scope of practice into head and neck oncology, as well as the management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), surgical treatment of the palatine tonsil is a logical progression for OMF surgeons.At the military medical center where I was previously assigned, the ENT service was limited to one provider. As such, the OMFS service frequently covered ENT call, which provided our residents with experience in the management of the peritonsillar abscess (PTAs), as well as the management of postoperative complications of tonsillectomy. Over time, I began comprehensive management of PTAs with a subsequent tonsillectomy when indicated. As the OMFS service started to see more OSA patients, management of the palatine tonsils became part of our surgical repertoire.This presentation will discuss the anatomy, embryology, histology and microbiology of the palatine tonsil. Indications and contraindications will be elucidated. The appropriate preoperative work up, as well as the step by step surgical technique will be demonstrated. Postoperative management, as well as dealing with complications will be discussed. Management of disease of the palatine tonsils has primarily been performed by ENT surgeons. However, as more oral and maxillofacial surgeons expand their scope of practice into head and neck oncology, as well as the management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), surgical treatment of the palatine tonsil is a logical progression for OMF surgeons. At the military medical center where I was previously assigned, the ENT service was limited to one provider. As such, the OMFS service frequently covered ENT call, which provided our residents with experience in the management of the peritonsillar abscess (PTAs), as well as the management of postoperative complications of tonsillectomy. Over time, I began comprehensive management of PTAs with a subsequent tonsillectomy when indicated. As the OMFS service started to see more OSA patients, management of the palatine tonsils became part of our surgical repertoire. This presentation will discuss the anatomy, embryology, histology and microbiology of the palatine tonsil. Indications and contraindications will be elucidated. The appropriate preoperative work up, as well as the step by step surgical technique will be demonstrated. Postoperative management, as well as dealing with complications will be discussed.