ULTRASONIC TONSILLECTOMY - RATIONALE AND TECHNIQUE

Dissection using ultrasonic aspiration is characterized by its unique tendency to spare fibrous and vascular structures during removal of pa renchymal lesions. This preliminary study was undertaken to evaluate t he feasibility and efficiency of tonsillectomy using the ultrasonic as pirator. Tonsillectomy was performed on 23 patients using the ultrason ic aspirator. Pericapsular removal of the tonsil was easily accomplish ed with complete preservation of the tonsillar pillars and minimal per itonsillar trauma. The ability to identify significant vasculature bef ore transection, and the constant aspiration integrated into the ultra sonic aspirator allowed excellent visualization of the operative field at all times. No postoperative complications were noted and recovery was typical for tonsillectomy patients. The ultrasonic aspirator may i ncrease the efficiency and margin of safety of tonsillectomy.