Efficacy and safety of 'hot' tonsillectomy

Recurrent acute tonsillitis, peritonsillar infections and quinsy (peritonsi llar abscess) are common clinical conditions that present to a general prac titioner. Management in general practice and in hospital is confounded by a pparently conflicting treatment options in the medical literature. We have developed clear guidelines as part of an ongoing audit cycle which include performing quinsy or 'hot' tonsillectomy in selected cases, alongside conse rvative treatments to ensure the speedy recovery and minimal hospitalisatio n of all patients, with resultant cost benefits.