Post-Operative Haemorrhage: Conventional Tonsillectomy by Scalpel/Snare Versus Tonsillectomy by Applying Knot at Lower Pole Pedicle

Abstract

Background: To evaluate whether applying a knot at
lower pole during tonsillectomy reduces post-operative
haemorrhage.
Methods: In this descriptive study 200 patients who
were diagnosed cases of recurrent acute tonsillitis were
enrolled. They were divided in two groups, each of 100
patients. In one group tonsillectomy was done by
conventional scalpel/snare method. In second group
tonsillectomy was done by applying knot at lower pole.
Results: Recurrent acute tonsillitis was most common
indication for tonsillectomy (n=185, 92%). Lower pole was
most common site for post tonsillectomy haemorrhage
(n=15, 8%). There was reduced incidence of post-operative
haemorrhage in second group(6%) versus 32% in first
group.
Conclusion: Post-operative haemorrhage is
significantly low if a knot is applied at lower pole pedicle,
during tonsillectomy.