Tonsillectomy with Radiofrequency Ablation (Coblator) Technique

Tonsillectomy is among the most common surgical procedures performed in children. The two major indications are oropharyngeal airway obstruction and recurrent or chronic infections of the oropharynx. In this video, radiofrequency ablation, or Coblation (controlled ablation), is the technique used to ablate the tonsils. This technique uses low-temperature radiofrequency and saline to create a plasma field that dissolves tissue. It is generally safer that high-temperature electrocautery and allows for precise removal of tissue without burning nearby structures.

Obstruction or chronic/recurrent infections of the oropharynx

Active local infection, certain hematologic disorders, certain pharyngeal anatomical abnormalities

N/A

The patient is placed under general anesthesia. A mouth retractor is placed to allow for visualization of the oral cavity.

Complete history and focused physical with anesthesia evaluation

The tonsils are situated in the lateral walls of the posterior oral cavity between the tonsillar pillars.

Pain, bleeding, infection, upper airway obstruction, laryngospasm, airway edema

None

1) Baugh RF, Archer SM, Mitchell RB et al. Clinical practice guideline: tonsillectomy in children. Otolaryngology head and neck surgery. 01/2011; 144:S1
2) Omrani MM. Journal of research in medical sciences: Coblation versus traditional tonsillectomy: A double blind randomized controlled trial. Isfahan University of Medical Sciences; 01/2012;17:45.
3) Smith & Nephew COBLATION Facts: http://mytonsils.com/coblation-facts.aspx