The effectiveness of z-shaped suture ligation in paediatric tonsillectomy

The effectiveness of z-shaped suture ligation in paediatric tonsillectomy. Objectives: Post-operative haemorrhage remains the most serious complication of tonsillectomy. Recently, several techniques and devices have been developed to minimize intra- and post-operative bleeding, but no optimal method has emerged. In this study, we assessed the effectiveness of z-shaped suture ligation, ensuring haemostasis in paediatric tonsillectomy and preventing post-tonsillectomy haemorrhage in the early and late stages. Methods: Retrospective data were collected from 315 consecutive children who underwent the tonsillectomy procedure with the cold dissection technique and z-shaped suture ligation to obtain haemostasis. Results: No patient experienced post-tonsillectomy haemorrhage. The success rates, in terms of early and late haemostasis, afforded by z-shaped suturing of the tonsillar fossa were thus 100%. Conclusions: The use of z-shaped suturing affords efficient and practical haemostasis in paediatric tonsillectomy. The procedure is inexpensive and requires no special equipment. The anterior and posterior pillars are preserved; thus, functional anatomy is ensured.