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My Tonsils

How do I get tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils. Viral or bacterial infections lead to tonsillitis and its complications. The inflammation may involve areas of the back of the throat other than the tonsils such as the adenoids.

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What is a tonsillectomy?

A tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils. Your doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy if you suffer from recurrent infections and/or if your tonsils become so enlarged they begin to block your throat.

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What is COBLATION◊ Technology?

COBLATION technology is a relatively new technique used to remove tonsils & adenoids. COBLATION technology differs from the traditional method (electrocautery) because it does not use high-heat electrical energy to burn away the tonsil tissue. Instead, COBLATION technology uses a lower-temperature plasma field to dissolve target tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding areas.

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No matter how statistically safe a procedure has proven to be, every surgery has risks. Post Tonsillectomy Hemorrhage (PTH) is a potentially serious complication that has been reported in literature for both adult and pediatric patients. It is reported to occur following use of COBLATION devices as well as following the use of other surgical devices and methods. Before making any surgical decision, you should speak with your doctor about any potential risks.

COBLATION wands are contraindicated for use in patients with cardiac pacemakers or other electronic device implants.

* Compared to monopolar dissection, based on analysis of eight randomized clinical trials.

Harley Jr., Earl H., John T., Mike and Hanson, Beate. Coblation Dissection Versus Monopolar Dissection - A systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. 2016; Data on file with Smith & Nephew, PN 91999 Rev A.

Woloszko, Jean, and Gilbride, Charles. Coblation Technology: Plasma Mediated Ablation for Otolaryngology Applications. Proceedings of SPIE. 2000, Vol. 3907.

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