Adenoidectomy | Tonsillectomy | Combined Technique

Other

Radiofrequency, laser and Harmonic scalpel® are other tools for removing the tonsils.

Bipolar radiofrequency device
A bipolar radiofrequency device (Coblation®) may also be used to perform an intracapsular tonsillectomy similar to the powered intracapsular tonsillectomy technique. The radiofrequency method results in slightly less blood loss during the procedure, but it is more expensive and the surgery takes longer because the device removes tissue more slowly. The benefits appear to be similar to those of the powered intracapsular tonsillectomy technique.

Laser
A handheld carbon dioxide (CO2) or KPT laser may be used to vaporize tonsil tissue. This procedure can generate extreme heat, smoke and charring (burning) that can hamper the surgeon's visibility and increase the risk of damage to surrounding tissues. It may also create additional swelling, pain, and a longer recovery.

Harmonic scalpel
The Harmonic scalpel uses ultrasonic energy to remove tonsil tissue. It is comparable to other low power techniques with similar 5 day recovery times.

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®Harmonic scalpel is a registered trademark of Johnson & Johnson.

®Coblation is a registered trademark of Arthrocare, Inc.

How are they removed?

Adenoidectomy techniques


Tonsillectomy techniques


Combined tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) techniques


Important Safety Information