Influence of Radiofrequency Surgery on Architecture of the Palatine Tonsils

Abstract

Radiofrequency surgery is a widely used modern technique for submucosal volume reduction of the tonsils. So far there is very limited information on morphologic changes in the human tonsils after radiofrequency surgery. We performed histopathological study of tonsillectomy specimens after previous bipolar radiofrequency induced thermotherapy (RFITT). A total of 83 patients underwent bipolar RFITT for hypertrophy of palatine tonsils. Tonsil volume reduction was measured by 3D ultrasonography. Five patients subsequently underwent tonsillectomy. Profound histopathological examination was performed to determine the effect of RFITT on tonsillar architecture. All tonsillectomy specimens showed the intact epithelium, intact germinal centers, normal vascularization, and no evidence of increased fibrosis. No microscopic morphological changes in tonsillectomy specimens after bipolar RFITT were observed. RFITT is an effective submucosal volume reduction procedure for treatment of hypertrophic palatine tonsils with no destructive effect on microscopic tonsillar architecture and hence most probably no functional adverse effect.

Surgical management of sleep-disordered breathing in children

“…29,[30][31][32][33] Interstitial radiofrequency bipolar thermal volume reduction also preserves parapharyngeal muscles and reduces the tonsil volume by 40% on average. 34,35 Risks and complications of adenotonsillectomy include postoperative hemorrhage; dehydration; temporary or permanent lingual or hypoglossal nerve injury with tongue numbness, weakness, or altered taste and sensation; injury to the carotid artery; glossopharyngeal nerve injury; regrowth of the lymphoid tissue, necessitating revision surgery; velopharyngeal insufficiency; injury to the torus tubarius, resulting in Eustachian tube dysfunction; and nasopharyngeal stenosis. [36][37][38] Pharyngeal and palate surgery…”

Acute tissue damage induced by monopolar microelectrodes and radiofrequency in vocal cords after transoral cordectomy

“…The architecture of the lymphoid germinal centres was normal, as was the extent and type of vascularisation. 9 …”