Does the use of radiofrequency ultrasonic dissector in tonsillectomy have a beneficial effect over the use of laser?

OBJECTIVE: To compare the intra- and post- operative morbidities on the use of radiofrequency ultrasonic dissector (US) with the use of laser during tonsillectomy in the same patients.

METHODS: A randomized comparative study was implemented where all patients underwent tonsillectomy at Al-Hada Armed Forces Hospital, Taif, and Aouhod Hospital, Al-Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the period January 2000 to December 2005 were recruited for the study. Radiofrequency US was used in one side, and laser was used in the other side of the same patient. Intra- and post- operative blood losses, and duration of the operation, in addition to postoperative pain score were recorded.

RESULTS: Five hundred and twenty-eight patients were recruited for the study. The mean operation duration was significantly shorter in the US group as compared to the laser group (p<0.01). Intraoperative blood loss was significantly lesser in the US group (p<0.001). Post-operative pain score was significantly lower among US subjects (p<0.001). No significant difference in postoperative hemorrhage was detected between the compared groups.

CONCLUSION: The use of US in tonsillectomy showed a beneficial effect on intraoperative blood loss, duration of the operation, as well as, postoperative pain over the use of laser.