The first experiences of implementation of the Swedish tonsil register in Denmark

Abstract

Background: Tonsil surgery is a daily procedure at Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) departments as well as ENT practices. Despite national tonsil guidelines in Denmark, no national survey has been introduced.Objectives: To display the process of implementing a Danish version of the Swedish tonsil register including a presentation and validation of the first year’s results.Methods: The Swedish tonsil register was translated into Danish. Minor modifications were executed and the register was implemented at the ENT department, Region Hospital West Jutland, Denmark. All patients undergoing surgery due to benign tonsil and/or adenoid diseases were eligible. Written informed consent was obtained. Indication for surgery, comorbidity, surgical and haemostasis techniques, and complications were registered by the surgeon.Results: Several obstacles were encountered due to legal procedures, daily work, IT organisation, and discontinuous information. 58% of eligible patients were registered. The incidence of post-tonsillectomy haemorrhage requiring secondary surgery was 6.4%. The potential underlying risk factors were easily retrieved from the register.Conclusions and significance: The Danish version of the national Swedish tonsil database is a useful, easily accessible, and informative tool for monitoring and validation of tonsil/adenoid surgery. We recommend a nationwide register with a central steering committee.