Mucosal Intact Laser Tonsillar Ablation

Abstract

None of the tonsils treated by MILTA showed mucosal ulceration. At the end of 45 days, histopathological examination showed complete absence of tonsillar tissue with normal mucosa in both the MILTA and standard groups. Traditional tonsillectomy techniques are associated with moderate morbidity and the potential for serious hemorrhage. With the preservation of the overlying mucosa, the possible clinical advantages of this approach to tonsillectomy are the absence of bleeding, avoidance of general anesthesia in older patients, less operating time, and decreased postoperative morbidity. The potential for office treatment exists. Additional laboratory studies, as well as careful clinical trials, are indicated based on these encouraging results.