Comparison of Bipolar Diathermy with Thunder-beat Device in Surgical Outcome of Tonsillectomy

Abstract

Background:. To compare the thunder-beat device
with bipolar diathermy in surgical outcome of
tonsillectomy.
Methods: In this prospective study 75 patients
who underwent tonsillectomy on one side using
thunder beat device and on the other side using
bipolar diathermy, were included . The intra-
operative blood loss, operative time, post-operative
pain and post-operative haemorrhage were taken for
analysis in both the surgical procedures.
Results: Among the seventy five patients, the age
groups ranged from 19-36 years with mean age
25.36+/-5.54 years. Out of 75 patients, 21 were male
and 54 were female.The comparison of operation
time and intra-operative blood loss between
thunder- beat and bipolar diathermy showed
statistically significant differences. The comparison
of pain score showed statistically significant result
with better pain results in bipolar diathermy
whereas the secondary haemorrhage was common in
thunder beat device.
Conclusion: The thunder-beat use in
tonsillectomies is less time consuming with
decreased intra-operative blood loss. But, the post-
operative pain is more as compared to bipolar
diathermy. Though, it is safe and effective in
performing tonsillectomy but its cost is the main
drawback for its regular use.