Ligation vs. bipolar diathermy for haemostasis in tonsillectomy-a comparative study

The use of diathermy for haemostasis in Tonsillectomy remains controversial. A thorough scan of English literature comparing the ligation with diathermy has been presented. The reasoning of using Bipolar instead of Unipolar is explained. A prospective randomized study of 376 tonsillectomy is being presented. This is the first study in India where Bipolar instead of Unipolar diathermy is being used.No significant difference was found in P.O. Hg. rates when either diathermy or ligatures were used. Diathermy is significantly faster method of securing haemostasis resulting in shorter operative a & anesthetic time, thus saving on cost.Long term follow-up has shown better results with diathermy & is associated with less pharyngitis, hyper-trophied nodes & resulis in more smooth tonsillar fossae.