Is Coblation tonsillectomy best for me?

What is Coblation Tonsillectomy?

Coblation is derived from collateral and ablation. Coblation technique is a radiofrequency technique in which the surgeon uses a wand that works at a molecular level dissecting tissues at a low temperature.

How does a tonsil sit in our oral cavity?

A tonsil is a lymphoid tissue with dense capsule around it, separating it from the oral cavity muscle. Pain fibres around a tonsil sit in the capsule and muscle. Coblation intracapsular tonsillectomy is a technique in which damage to the capsule is avoided.

What does it mean by "Intracapsular tonsillectomy" and "Extracapsular tonsillectomy"?

"Intracapsular tonsillectomy" is offered when symptomatic improvement can be achieved without damaging the tonsil capsule and hence there is less pain. This can be offered in children with sleep apnoea and particular cases of recurrent tonsillitis. In adults again, intracapsular tonsillectomy can be used with sleep apnea and symptomatic patients of tonsil stones.

"Extracapsular tonsillectomy" is offered when the aim is to remove whole tonsil tissue and in some cases to get a tissue sample. Extracapsular tonsillectomy can be performed by coblation, bipolar or cold steel instruments.

How long does it take to perform coblation tonsillectomy?

The operating time of coblation tonsillectomy is the same as the conventional tonsillectomy procedure and takes approximately 20-30 min.

What are the complications of coblation tonsillectomy?

Bleeding: Post-op bleeding rate is around 1% compared to 2-4% with conventional tonsillectomy if performing intracapsular tonsillectomy. Post-op bleeding rates are same when performing the extracapsular procedure.
Pain: Post-op pain is much lower with intracapsular coblation tonsillectomy technique.
Tonsil regrowth: In intracapsular tonsillectomy, there is a risk of remnant tonsil regrowth. Most of the evidence papers suggest that tonsil regrowth is more common in children younger than five and is around 4-5%. Most of these children had the intracapsular tonsillectomy before the age of 2.
Injury to teeth and gums: Risk of damage to teeth and gums is the same with all the tonsillectomy techniques.
Change in taste: Few patients may report a temporary change in taste due to mouth gag rubbing on the taste buds while the surgeon performs the procedure.

What are the top tips for quick recovery after tonsillectomy procedure?

Pain Control: Most critical factor for a quick recovery is a good post-operative pain control. Take pain killer medications as advised by your doctor.

Hydration: Staying hydrated helps tissue healing, decreases nausea and vomiting post-op and helps in quicker recovery.

Physical activity: Avoiding strenuous activity for two weeks post-op helps decrease post-operative bleeding risk.

Diet: Having regular meals helps in tissue healing. Starting with a soft diet and building towards a standard diet helps quicker recovery. Avoid hot, spicy and sour food during two weeks of post-operative periods.

Helping patients with specialist expertise and kindness

Mr Gaurav Kumar

Consultant Ear Nose Throat Surgeon

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Disclaimer: For general information only, always seek medical advice from treating consultant.

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