The Surgical Evolution: A Comparative Review of Conventional and Coblation Techniques for Tonsillectomy

Background: Tonsillectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in pediatric otorhinolaryngology. While cold steel dissection tonsillectomy has long been regarded as the gold standard, newer techniques such as coblation tonsillectomy have been introduced with the aim of reducing intraoperative blood loss and postoperative morbidity. However, evidence comparing these techniques remains variable. Aim and Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare cold steel dissection tonsillectomy and coblation-assisted tonsillectomy in pediatric patients. The objectives were to compare intraoperative parameters, specifically operative time and blood loss, between the two techniques, and to evaluate and compare postoperative outcomes, including pain, morbidity, and the time required to resume a normal diet and routine daily activities.. Materials and Methods: This prospective, randomized comparative study was conducted at Government Tirupur Medical College Hospital, Tiruppur, India, between August 2025 and December 2025. A total of 56 pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy were randomized into two groups: Group A underwent cold steel dissection tonsillectomy (n=27) and Group B underwent coblation-assisted tonsillectomy (n=29). Intraoperative parameters assessed included operative time and blood loss. Postoperative outcomes evaluated were pain intensity using validated pediatric pain scales, time to resume a normal diet and routine physical activities, and the incidence of postoperative hemorrhage. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate comparative tests, with p