Coblation Versus Suction Diathermy in Pediatric Adenoidectomy

One hundred and five patients underwent a Coblation-assisted adenoidectomy procedure. The child was positioned in Rose's position, which helped retract the soft palate and improve visibility of the nasopharynx. Two soft rubber catheters were inserted into the patient's mouth, with the distal and proximal ends crossed externally and secured with a clamp. The COBLATOR™ II surgery system Model EC8000-01 was used, with a power setting of nine for ablation and five for coagulation. Under general anesthesia, the adenoidectomy was performed using either a 4 mm, 70-degree angled endoscope inserted orally or a zero-degree endoscope inserted through the nose, providing effective visualization of the nasopharynx. After the procedure, hemostasis was achieved by using a combination of the coagulation and ablation modes.

One hundred and five patients underwent a suction diathermy adenoidectomy procedure. The soft palate was gently retracted using two suction catheters, allowing a 70-degree angled endoscope (Storz, Germany) placed in the oropharynx to provide a clear view of the adenoidal tissue and surrounding structures in the nasopharynx. Using a malleable size 10 or 12 French hand-switching suction coagulator, the adenoidal tissue was carefully ablated, starting from the uppermost part. The procedure was completed when the posterior choanae were clearly visible, and the nasopharynx had a smooth, unobstructed appearance. Great care was taken to avoid injuring the Eustachian tube orifice, posterior septum, choanae, inferior turbinate, palate, and posterior pharyngeal wall. Continuous irrigation with saline, either through the mouth or the nose, helped minimize any thermal damage caused by the diathermy machine.