A Comparison of Revision Adenoidectomy Rates by Technique

Abstract

Objective: No studies are available comparing revision adenoidectomy rates between patients who underwent suction coagulator or powered-shaver (microdebrider) techniques at their initial surgery. Our objective is to compare revision adenoidectomy rates between these 2 instrument groups. This information may be able to guide technique selection and assist training resident otolaryngologists.

Method: This study is a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent revision adenoidectomy at Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, from June 2007 through December 2011. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on technique of adenoidectomy used at the time of initial surgery, and the regrowth rate analyzed.

Results: During the 4.5-year study period, 7399 adenoidectomies or adenotonsillectomies were performed. A total of 94 revisions were performed (1.27%). Microdebrider was used in 4071 adenoidectomies, and the remaining 3328 cases were performed with mainly electrocautery, and less often curette or coblator. Total revisions done with the microdebrider at initial surgery during the time period was 33 (0.81%). Total revisions done with the suction bovie at initial surgery was 46 (at least 1.38%). The mean age at presentation for primary adenoidectomy was 2.85 years. The average interval until revision adenoidectomy was 29 months. These data will be further analyzed statistically.

Conclusion: Symptomatic regrowth of adenoid tissue is rare. There was a trend toward a lower rate of adenoid regrowth requiring revision surgery in those who underwent microdebrider versus suction bovie adenoidectomy initially. Revision adenoidectomy occurs at a rate of 1.3% overall, while the revision rate with the microdebrider technique is 0.8%.