Patient Questionnaires
A prospective observational cohort audit of patients who fulfilled the
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) criteria for
tonsillectomy was performed. Patients were recruited when they attended
for assessment of tonsillectomy. All patients were aged 16 or above. All
patients were invited to complete two questionnaires after they had been
added to the waiting list for tonsillectomy. The Tonsil Outcome
Inventory-14 (TOI14) is a validated disease specific tool used to assess
the quality of life impact of tonsillitis5. It
distinguishes normal healthy subjects from chronic tonsillitis sufferers
with high sensitivity.
The Halitosis Associated Life-quality Test (HALT) is a specific 20-item
quality of life measure for halitosis. Is describes the burden of
halitosis and is sensitive to change6. HALT scores are
significantly associated with the scales of organoleptic testing,
regarded as the ‘gold standard’ measurement for
halitosis7.
Smoking status was recorded from the ENT history. Patients were regarded
as having reflux if they were taking anti reflux medication.