Power-assisted partial adenoidectomy.
OBJECTIVE: To describe partial adenoidectomy using a powered microdebrider and review the experience with the procedure. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study and review. METHODS: To perform a power-assisted partial adenoidectomy, the surgeon directs the window in the microdebrider blade tip toward the tissue, which is drawn in by suction; the rotating blade then shaves the tissue. Studies have compared this adenoidectomy technique with curette procedures. RESULTS: In a comparative prospective study, we found that operating time and time required for hemostasis were significantly shorter (P =.001) with power-assisted partial adenoidectomy than with curettage. There was no significant difference between the two procedures in blood loss or complication rate. These results were similar to those of previous studies. Overall, we have performed more than 1000 power-assisted partial adenoidectomies. No long-term complications have occurred, blood loss remains low, and surgeons are satisfied with the technique because of its speed, improved visibility during resection, and precision. CONCLUSION: We and other authors have found power-assisted partial adenoidectomy to provide a faster, more precise operation than curette techniques, with benefits for both patient and surgeon.