Use of bipolar coagulation diathermy for the management of recurrent pediatric epistaxis

Abstract Background: There is a lack of consensus as regards the optimal approach to the problem of recurrent pediatric epistaxis. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of bipolar coagulation diathermy in the management of recurrent pediatric epistaxis. Patients and methods: This prospective study was conducted on 75 pediatric patients (6-15 years) with recurrent epistaxis, who were evaluated and treated with bipolar diathermic cautery during a 6-month follow-up period. Results: During the follow-up period, 65 (87%) patients had complete absence of epistaxis with significant improvement (P ≤ 0.05), nine (12%) patients had less than 10 attacks of epistaxis, and one patient had more than 10 attacks and was controlled with another trial of bipolar diathermic cautery. Patients with normal coagulation profile had significantly better results compared with patients with coagulation defects. Patients had no complications after the procedure. Conclusion: Bipolar coagulation diathermy is an effective and safe procedure in the management of recurrent pediatric epistaxis. © 2016, The Author(s).