Radiofrequency Micro-Bipolar Tonsillectomy

The combination of the microsurgical method using a microscope together with bipolar coagulation for tonsillectomy was fi rst described by Andrea [1]. A signifi cant reduction in postoperative morbidity was reported. A modifi ed technique with similar success in more than 1.000 tonsillectomies uses a new instrument which incorporates not only precise bipolar coagulation, but also suction and excellent dissection capabilities. The use of a magnifi cation device, such as loup lenses or a microscope further enhances control during the intervention. Tonsillectomies can be performed very quickly with little, but precise and effective bipolar coagulation while most of the dissection is “cold” or “blunt”. The glossopharyngeal nerve can be identifi ed and spared.