Publication:

Suction diathermy adenoidectomy: audit of current practice in a tertiary care hospital

Background Adenoidectomy is conventionally performed using adenoid curette as a blind procedure. Suction diathermy adenoidectomy is a technique of ablating the adenoid tissue using thermal energy and removing it by suction. This audit aims to study the efficacy and complications of this technique in a tertiary care center.

Methods Retrospective analysis of hospital database was conducted. Twenty-seven patients who underwent suction diathermy adenoidectomy were identified and hospital records studied. Parents were contacted and enquired regarding improvement in child's symptoms.

Results No instances of postoperative complications identified. All except 2 parents were completely satisfied with the improvement in their child's symptoms. Two children had occasional mouth breathing.

Conclusions Suction diathermy adenoidectomy is a feasible alternative to conventional adenoidectomy with few complications and minimal rate of recurrence.