Tonsillectomy using ultrasonic scalpel

National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
Record ID 32006000762
English
Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the current evidence on tonsillectomy using ultrasonic scalpel.

Authors' recommendations: 1 Guidance 1.1 Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of tonsillectomy using ultrasonic scalpel appears adequate to support the use of this technique provided that normal arrangements are in place for consent, audit and clinical governance. 1.2 The use of ultrasonic scalpel for tonsillectomy may result in higher rates of secondary haemorrhage than some other techniques, and clinicians wishing to use ultrasound scalpel should be specifically trained. The British Association of Otorhinolaryngologists ; Head and Neck Surgeons has agreed to produce standards for training. 1.3 Surgeons should ensure that patients or their parents/carers understand the risk of haemorrhage after tonsillectomy using ultrasonic scalpel. In addition, use of the Institute's 'Understanding NICE guidance' is recommended (available from www.nice.org.uk/IPG178publicinfo). 1.4 Surgeons should audit and review rates of haemorrhage following tonsillectomy in their own practices and in the context of the techniques they use. Publication of further information about the influence of different techniques and other factors (such as age) on the incidence of haemorrhage after tonsillectomy would be useful in guiding future practice.
Authors' methods: Overview
Details
Project Status: Completed
Year Published: 2006
English language abstract: An English language summary is available
Publication Type: Not Assigned
Country: England
MeSH Terms
  • Tonsillectomy
  • Tonsillitis
  • Ultrasonic Therapy
Contact
Organisation Name: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
Contact Address: Level 1A, City Tower, Piccadilly Plaza, Manchester, M1 4BT
Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk
Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk
Copyright: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)
This is a bibliographic record of a published health technology assessment from a member of INAHTA or other HTA producer. No evaluation of the quality of this assessment has been made for the HTA database.