Radiofrequency ablation versus electrocautery in tonsillectomy.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to compare the safety, difficulty of removal, and postoperative pain profile of radiofrequency ablation versus standard electrocautery removal of tonsils.


METHODS
A prospective, blinded study was designed to remove 1 tonsil with each of the 2 methods. Time of operation, estimated blood loss, difficulty of operation, postoperative pain, rate of postoperative hemorrhage, and the patient's preferred technique were evaluated.


RESULTS
The operating time was significantly longer (P < 0.007) and the patients reported significantly less pain (P < 0.001) with radiofrequency ablation. There were no differences in blood loss, difficulty of operation, or postoperative hemorrhage rates. The patients preferred the radiofrequency ablation technique (P < 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
Radiofrequency ablation is a viable method to remove tonsillar tissue. Operating time for this procedure will likely decrease with experience. There was significantly less pain reported with radiofrequency ablation compared with standard electrocautery.
Hall
Daniel J
DJ
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tripler Army Medical Center, HI 96859, USA. Daniel.Hall@haw.tamc.amedd.army.mil
Littlefield
Philip D
PD
Birkmire-Peters
Deborah P
DP
Holtel
Michael R
MR
D000328:Adult; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000379:methods*; D004564:Electrocoagulation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000209:etiology; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D019106:Postoperative Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D014068:Tonsillectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome