Tonsillectomy in Adults: Analysis of Indications and Outcome in Sokoto, North Western Nigeria

Background: Tonsillectomy is a well-established surgical procedure practiced commonly by otolaryngologist for removal of tonsils. Although being a relatively simple and common procedure, it is not without considerable complications. This study aimed to profile the indication and outcome of adult tonsillectomy in our region.

Method: This was a retrospective study of all adults who had tonsillectomy in the department of Otorhinolaryngology, Usman Danfodiyo Teaching Hospital, (UDUTH) Sokoto, over a seven-year period from 1st January 2011 to 31st December 2017. All information was carefully retrieved from each patient’s case file and from the operation register. The data retrieved was subsequently analysed.

Results: A total of 55 adults patients had tonsillectomy over the period of study. Age range was 18 to 45 years with a mean age of 26.3 years. There were 16 males (29.1%) and 39 females (70.9%) with a male to female ratio of 1:2.4. Recurrent tonsillitis 28(50.9%) was the commonest indication; others include: post quinsy 13(23.6%), tonsillomegally 6(10.9%); suspected neoplasm 6(10.9%); recurrent otalgia secondary to tonsillomegally 2(3.6%) Five patients had unilateral tonsillectomy for suspected neoplasm while others had bilateral tonsillectomy. Cold dissection was used in 37 (67.2%) of the patients, while 18(32.7%)were by electro cautery (Bipolar diathermy).

The commonest post-operative complication was pain in all patients, followed by otalgia (29.1%) and secondary post tonsillectomy bleed in two patients. No patient had blood transfusion. Hospital average stay was 3 days.

Follow up was uneventful in 16 (29.1%) of patients while 4(7.3%) patients had squamous cell carcinoma and were refered to Oncologist. The remaining 35 patients were lost to follow up.

Conclusion: The commonest indication for Adult tonsillectomy is chronic recurrent tonsillitis. Histopathological analysis of every tonsil specimen is advocated.