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This alternative procedure to traditional tonsillectomy uses radiofrequency energy to reduce the size of your tonsils. This procedure is minimally invasive, causing less discomfort and reducing recovery time.

A minimally-invasive alternative way to remove the tonsils and adenoids.

Unlike a traditional surgical knife or “electrocautery” (heat) procedure, tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy using COBLATION™ Plasma Technology can be used to reduce the size of your tonsils and remove your adenoids with little harm to surrounding healthy tissue.

What is CoblationTM technology?

COBLATION™ Technology utilises radiofrequency energy to remove tissue. Because the COBLATION™ process is not a heat-driven process, surrounding healthy tissue is preserved.

How is tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy using COBLATION™ Technology performed?

This surgery is almost always done under general anaesthesia and it only lasts about 30 minutes. The surgeon uses a special hand piece which utilises radiofrequency energy to reduce the tonsil tissue and remove the adenoids in a near bloodless fashion. Most patients can go home the same day.

Going home and recovery

When you leave the hospital, you may get a prescription for pain medication and antibiotics to help fight infections.

You should:

  • rest at home for a few days to a week
  • avoid vigorous physical activities for a week or two.

You may:

  • have a sore throat and a hard time swallowing for a few days
  • find softer foods easier to eat and swallow but most food is OK.

Risk and complications

Every surgical procedure carries a degree of risk. Your consultant will discuss all the possible risks with you during your consultation.

As with all tonsillectomy procedures, in addition to general anaesthesia risks, 2-3% of tonsillectomy patients can experience post-op bleeding (up to 5-10 days after surgery). Fever can be present, and dehydration and weight loss can occur, especially among children who won’t eat or drink due to pain.

Tonsil removal (tonsillectomy) using COBLATION™ Plasma Technology consultants at Tunbridge Wells Hospital

Tunbridge Wells Hospital

Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4UL

01892 531 111
Switchboard 01892 531111
Enquiries 01892 531 111
Physiotherapy 03450454845
Radiology 01892 552 916

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Related free events

Meet our expert on Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) issues

Thursday 6 February 2025

Tunbridge Wells Hospital

Mr Sri Mahalingam

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