Comparing tonsillectomy and tonsillotomy for treating recurrent tonsillitis

Tonsillectomy Versus Tonsillotomy in the Treatment of Recurrent Acute Tonsillitis: A Randomized Controlled Non-inferiority Trial

Not applicable Interventional Aarhus University Hospital · NCT06606262

This study is testing whether a less invasive surgery called tonsillotomy can help adults with frequent sore throats just as well as the traditional tonsillectomy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment250 (estimated)
Ages15 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAarhus University Hospital Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations2 sites (Aalborg and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06606262 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness and safety of tonsillotomy compared to the traditional tonsillectomy in adults suffering from recurrent acute tonsillitis. It aims to enroll 250 participants who will be randomly assigned to receive either tonsillectomy or tonsillotomy, with a follow-up period of 12 months. The primary outcomes include the frequency of sore throat episodes, quality of life improvements, and postoperative pain levels. The goal is to determine if tonsillotomy can serve as a less invasive alternative to tonsillectomy without compromising treatment efficacy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 15 and older who experience recurrent acute tonsillitis as defined by specific episode criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of tonsil surgery, suspected malignancies, or certain medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a less painful and lower-risk treatment option for patients with recurrent tonsillitis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested that tonsillotomy may be a viable alternative to tonsillectomy, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults (age ≥15 years) with RT, defined as a minimum of five tonsillitis episodes in one year or a minimum of three tonsillitis episodes per year for two years (Danish National Guidelines criteria
* The ability to understand Danish orally and in writing.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous TE or TO.
* Suspected tonsillar malignancy.
* History of malignant tumor in the oral cavity, the pharynx or the larynx.
* Previous radiation therapy on head or neck.
* Hemorrhagic diathesis or anticoagulant therapy.

Where this trial is running

Aalborg and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Tonsillitis Recurrenttonsillectomytonsillotomyquality of life
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.