Tonsillectomy Debate and Public Education

Abstract

Tonsillectomy debate and public educationWithin our professional community the debate rages over technology, pitting old standards against new technologies. Recent studies bring to light the differences between them, and lead us to reevaluate our methods and challenge our current state of thinking.One such study by Dr. Kelly E. Stoker compared electrocautery and Coblation in a sample of patients. Dr. Stoker concluded Coblation tonsillectomy lessens pain, shortens recovery time, and requires less post-operative narcotics than electrocautery. The study also found electrocautery and Coblation to have similar results regarding surgical performance time and bleeding complications. 1 This is just one example of the ongoing research being conducted to examine our techniques in an effort to improve the quality of care for our patients and the advancement our profession.Although exciting changes are occurring, the general public's perception of tonsillectomy is behind the times. In a recent survey conducted by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ͼ90% of respondents were unaware that advanced technology is available for carrying out tonsillectomies and an equal number would choose a less painful option for their children if they knew one were available.As otolaryngologists, results of the survey may not be groundbreaking news, but the responses offer a glimpse into the viewpoints of the public, and our patients. It is therefore responsible of us to consider new methods and alternatives to provide better outcomes and improve the surgical experience for patients.