title: Diathermy haemostasis at tonsillectomy: current practice--a survey of U.K. otolaryngologists.
abstract: The use of diathermy in achieving haemostasis at tonsillectomy was assessed by means of a postal questionnaire sent to consultant otolaryngologists practising in the U.K. A response of 81 per cent was obtained. Forty-four per cent presently use diathermy. Few considered the age of the patient or a history of a quinsy a contraindication to its use. The diathermy experience of users and non-users with regard to speed, post-operative pain and haemorrhage differs markedly. This dichotomy of opinions is confirmed by a review of the literature. Clearly there is a need for further studies to clarify the role of diathermy in tonsillectomy.
authors.affiliation: ENT Department, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne.
authors.forename: G E
authors.initials: GE
authors.lastname: Murty
authors.forename: M G
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Watson
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D004564:Electrocoagulation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D006488:Hemostasis, Surgical / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008026:Ligation; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000209:etiology; D000039:Peritonsillar Abscess / Q000150:complications; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D013997:Time Factors; D014068:Tonsillectomy