Abstract

Tonsillectomy is a procedure commonly performed by otolaryngologists. The National Prospective Tonsillectomy Audit [1] reported reduced postoperative haemorrhage rates using cold steel dissection combined with ligation for haemostasis in comparison to hot tonsillectomy techniques. Accordingly, there is growing emphasis on the need for ENT surgical trainees to develop competence in tonsillectomy ties for haemostasis. Tonsillectomy tie technique is an important skill that requires good manual dexterity and one that is difficult to learn under the pressure of a bleeding patient. Furthermore, in the UK, opportunities for junior surgical trainees to undertake tonsillectomy tie training in the operating theatre have been limited by the enforcement of the European Working Time Directive [2]. Thus, there is a growing need for the use of simulation to practise tonsillectomy ties. We present a simple, readily available and economical simulation model for surgical trainees to practise tonsillectomy ties.