Electrosurgery for Tonsillectomy

OBJECTIVE: To describe the electrophysical principles, techniques, and morbidity associated with electrosurgical tonsillectomy. STUDY DESIGN: Review. METHODS: In electrosurgery, radiofrequency energy is applied directly to tissues to generate heat. Electrosurgery devices are radiofrequency generators coupled with application handpieces. The most common electrosurgery techniques are the monopolar blade, monopolar suction, bipolar, and microscopy-assisted procedures. Several studies have compared electrosurgery with other methods for performing tonsillectomy. RESULTS: Electrosurgery has been found to be equivalent to or better than other methods used for tonsillectomy with respect to perioperative and delayed bleeding, postoperative pain, operating time, and time to return to normal activity. CONCLUSION: Several safe and effective techniques are available for tonsillectomy, including electrosurgery. The choice of method depends on the surgeon's training, comfort with the technology, experience, and impressions concerning morbidity.