Indirect visualisation of the upper pole during tonsillectomy.

BACKGROUND

During tonsillectomy, one of the key concerns is establishing adequate haemostasis. Intra-operative haemorrhage from the upper pole of the tonsil fossae can be a challenge to deal with because of an inability to clearly visualise bleeding points. Laryngeal mirrors are readily available in an ENT operating theatre and routinely used for indirect visualisation of the post-nasal space during adenoidectomy.

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes a technique, utilising a laryngeal mirror placed within the tonsil fossa (after having removed the palatine tonsil), to visualise the upper pole and any bleeding points.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Laryngeal mirrors can be used with case to inspect the tonsil fossa post-tonsillectomy for bleeding points which may not be directly visible, so that these can be cauterised.