OBJECTIVE: To compare electrocautery adenoidectomy with conventional (curettage) and power-assisted (endoscopic shaver) methods. STUDY DESIGN: Comparative review. METHODS: Prospective and retrospective studies comparing electrocautery adenoidectomy and conventional curettage or power-assisted methods were reviewed to provide direct comparisons regarding specific outcome variables. RESULTS: Electrocautery adenoidectomy is a precise, effective technique for removing adenoid tissue. Compared with curettage techniques, electrocautery involves less blood loss and shorter operating times. Power-assisted adenoidectomy also offers shorter operating times and less blood loss, but the necessary equipment is more expensive and more experience is required to attain proficiency with the technique. CONCLUSION: Electrocautery adenoidectomy provides the benefits of minimization of operating time and blood loss at a lower cost than power-assisted adenoidectomy.
OBJECTIVE: To compare electrocautery adenoidectomy with conventional (curettage) and power-assisted (endoscopic shaver) methods. STUDY DESIGN: Comparative review. METHODS: Prospective and retrospective studies comparing electrocautery adenoidectomy and conventional curettage or power-assisted methods were reviewed to provide direct comparisons regarding specific outcome variables. RESULTS: Electrocautery adenoidectomy is a precise, effective technique for removing adenoid tissue. Compared with curettage techniques, electrocautery involves less blood loss and shorter operating times. Power-assisted adenoidectomy also offers shorter operating times and less blood loss, but the necessary equipment is more expensive and more experience is required to attain proficiency with the technique. CONCLUSION: Electrocautery adenoidectomy provides the benefits of minimization of operating time and blood loss at a lower cost than power-assisted adenoidectomy.