A Rare Complication: Perioral Burn Related to Electrocautery Use during Adenotonsillectomy

Electrocautery is frequently used for incisions and bleeding control during adenotonsillectomy which is one of the most commonly performed pediatric surgical procedures. Although cases of perioral burn related to electrocautery use are rarely reported complications in literature, they account for a significant portion of malpractice lawsuits. The use of insulated surgical tools and lip protective equipment, careful surgery, and the frequent control of surgical equipment may decrease the number of this complication. This study examines whether a rarely reported complication related to perioral burn is indeed rarely seen or whether there are problems in reporting the real rates because it is evaluated to be a case of malpractice, and the protective factors that will prevent this problem. Consequently, it is underlined that this complication, which is more frequently seen than it is reported, should be a part of preoperative information process and the consent form.