The coblation tonsillectomy learning curve

Abstract

To establish if there is a learning curve for coblation tonsillectomy. Regression analysis of data obtained from surgeons identified from the Australian Tonsillectomy Survey. Thirty otolaryngologists were invited to contribute audit data. Data were stratified into groups of 10 procedures and analysed with regression analysis. Nineteen (70%) surgeons responded. Complete data were obtained for 1700 cases and return to theatre data on 2062 cases. There was a significant learning curve with respect to both primary (P = 0.050) and secondary (P = 0.028) hemorrhage rates. Mean rates were 0.3% (95% CI 0.1% to 0.7%) and 2.1% (95% CI 1.5% to 2.9%) for primary and secondary bleeds, respectively, with return to theatre in 0.2% (95% CI 0.1% to 0.5%) and 1.3% (95% CI 0.9% to 1.9%), respectively. The introduction of coblation tonsillectomy into Australia was associated with a statistically significant learning curve with respect to both primary and secondary hemorrhage rates.