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May 22, 2006
Tonsil removal doesn't hurt cochlear
Cochlear implant device integrity is not compromised by electrosurgery used in removal of tonsils and adenoids, say U.S. researchers. Dr. Patrick J. Antonelli of the University of Florida and Dr. Roxana Baratelli of Tulane University say cochlear implant recipients have been discouraged from having monopolar electrosurgery for ear, nose and throat procedures due to concerns over possible damage to the implant and the auditory neurons.
While monopolar electrosurgery is rarely, if ever, absolutely necessary, it greatly facilitates treatment in certain procedures such as adenoidectomy, or removal of the tonsils and adenoids, the researchers say.
With a growing population of patients receiving the implants at very young ages, more children may subsequently develop a need for an adenoidectomy.
The researchers say they believe that their observations should be viewed as merely a first step toward establishing the safety of various electrosurgical technologies for head and neck procedures, such as adenoidectomy.
The findings will be presented at the annual meeting of the American Neurotology Society in Chicago.
Source: http://www.upi.com/ConsumerHealthDaily/view.php?StoryID=20060519-043809-8727r
Posted by 4HL on May 22, 2006 9:14 AM
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