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Blood splash from different diathermy instruments during tonsillectomy

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 July 2006

B C Hanna ,
P Thompson ,
C Smyth  and
G Gallagher
B C Hanna
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, Antrim Area Hospital, Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK
P Thompson
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, Antrim Area Hospital, Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK
C Smyth
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, Antrim Area Hospital, Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK
G Gallagher
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, Antrim Area Hospital, Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK
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Abstract

Objective: To compare the potential risk of blood contamination of the surgeon's conjunctiva during tonsillectomy using disposable bipolar diathermy and reusable monopolar diathermy.

Design: A prospective, single-blind, randomized, controlled trial.

Methods: Elective tonsillectomy was performed using either disposable bipolar diathermy or reusable monopolar diathermy. The operating surgeon wore a ViewsafeTM protective eyeshield which was later examined under an operating microscope by a blinded observer and the number of blood spots counted.

Results: One hundred and sixty-eight patients were enrolled. The relative risk of conjunctival contamination of the surgeon using disposable bipolar diathermy was 2.8 times that with reusable monopolar diathermy (chi-squared test, p < 0.0005). A previous history of peritonsillar abscess and additional adenoidectomy were associated with increased blood splatter.

Conclusion: The use of disposable bipolar diathermy for haemostasis during tonsillectomy poses a greater risk of conjunctival contamination for the surgeon than using reusable monopolar diathermy.

Keywords

TonsillectomyBloodConjunctivaElectrocoagulationDiathermy
Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 120 , Issue 11 , November 2006 , pp. 927 - 931
Copyright
2006 JLO (1984) Limited

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