Bipolar loop device versus bipolar diathermy for tonsillectomy: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Tonsillectomy is a common pediatric procedure with various techniques.
• No single technique is universally recognized as superior.
• Comparing novel methods is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of Bipolar Loop tonsillectomy versus bipolar diathermy in pediatric patients.
• To evaluate operative time, intraoperative bleeding, wound healing, and postoperative complications.

Main Methods:

• Pilot randomized clinical trial involving 40 pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy.
• Patients were randomized into two groups: Bipolar Loop or bipolar diathermy.
• Key outcomes measured included operative time, bleeding, wound status, and recovery metrics.

Main Results:

• The Bipolar Loop group demonstrated significantly reduced operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative pain (P < .001).
• Superior tonsillar fossa wound healing was observed in the Bipolar Loop group by day 14 (P = .009).
• No significant differences were found in postoperative bleeding, diet resumption, or symptoms like fever, otalgia, or voice change.

Conclusions:

• Bipolar Loop tonsillectomy resulted in significantly less blood loss and postoperative pain up to day 7.
• The Bipolar Loop technique is a viable and recommended option for pediatric tonsillectomy.