DAY-CASE TONSILLECTOMY IN ADULTS - HOW MANY ARE SUITABLE

Dap case surgery is increasing to improve health care cost efficiency. The economic benefits of day surgery depend on how many patients are suitable. Adult tonsillectomy is a common operation. This study aims t o define what proportion of adults undergoing tonsillectomy are suitab le for day case surgery. One hundred consecutive adults undergoing ele ctive in-patient tonsillectomy were studied prospectively. Patients we re questioned, examined and investigated for any general medical or so cial contra-indications to day surgery as specified by the Royal Colle ge of Surgeons of England. They were also questioned about specific co ntra-indications to day case tonsillectomy, including NSAID contraindi cations and tonsillectomy indicated for biopsy, quinsy or with another procedure. Seventy-six per cent patients satisfied the requirements. The most common reasons for failure were social. A high proportion of adults are suitable for day case tonsillectomy and therefore significa nt economic benefits are possible. However, prior to such surgery furt her work on operation suitability is required.