Objectives: To compare bipolar diathermy with cold dissection in paediatric tonsillectomy.
Methods: One hundred and fifty children were randomized equally into bipolar diathermy tonsillectomy (BDT) and cold dissection tonsillectomy (CDT). Operative time, operative blood loss, postoperative pain, diet intake, activity level and complications were compared in the 2 groups.
Results: The 2 groups were comparable in age and sex distribution. Operative time and blood loss was significantly less in the diathermy group. No significant difference in the postoperative pain except on the 3rd day in which the cold dissection group showed significantly lower pain score. Mean percentage of diet was significantly higher in the diathermy group on the 1st day. No significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of postoperative activity and complications.
Conclusion: BDT is a safe technique of tonsillectomy. There is significant less operative time and blood loss with similar morbidity compared to CDT, so it can be used safely in children.