Indications for tonsillectomy: the evidence base and current UK practice

Abstract

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures, and nearly two thirds of those performed annually in England and Wales are paediatric cases. Over the years the associated complications have not changed and the indications continue to be controversial. This article looks at the evidence base for current UK practice.

Indications for tonsillectomy stratified by the level of evidence

“…According to the above-mentioned search strategy, 4 articles published between 2004 and 2014 matched our search criteria [37], [468], [469], [470]. The publications summarized the status of knowledge at the time of publication, however, they are written in very different ways.…”

“…The publications summarized the status of knowledge at the time of publication, however, they are written in very different ways. The most recent papers are reduced to the indications in children [468], [469], a very short article dealt with the practice in England [470]. One paper [37] does not reflect the exhaustive literature review of the co-author Mund, obtainable from his doctoral thesis [38].…”

“…This article [470] consists of 3 pages and cited the Scottish guideline [437] suggesting the following indication criteria: origin of sore throat episodes for ≥1 year, impaired daily life and ≥5 episodes of sore throat per year. The cited US American guideline stated for children: ≥3 tonsillitis episodes per year [475].…”

Amigdalectomía y adenoidectomía: Conceptos, técnicas y recomendaciones

“…*SAHOS: Síndrome de apnea/hipopnea obstructiva del sueño *Criterios de Paradise: 7 episodios de amigdalitis bacteriana en 1 año, 5 anuales por 2 años consecutivos, o 3 anuales en 3 años consecutivos 8 .…”

Serious tonsil infections versus tonsillectomy rates in Wales: A 15-year analysis

“…For these patients, tonsillectomy is a vital part of the treatment and management of recurrent tonsillitis. 3 Moreover, tonsillectomy performed for recurrent severe tonsillitis in a timely manner has been shown to be cost effective. 2 Tonsillectomy may lead to complications, however, and this includes a risk of life-threatening haemorrhage.…”