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.