The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) has published a guideline on the management of sore throat and indications for tonsillectomy. 
The guideline covers children and adults and provides background information, recommendations and discussion on:

• Presentation and diagnosis of sore throat in primary care
• Pain relief and adjunctive therapies for sore throats in adults and children
• Antibiotics in acute and recurrent sore throat
• Evidence for surgery in recurrent tonsillitis
• Referral criteria for tonsillectomy for the treatment of recurrent tonsillitis
• The pattern of postoperative pain
• Prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting
• Provision of information for patients and carers

The guideline does not address tonsillectomy for suspected malignancy nor as a treatment for sleep apnoea or peritonsillar abscess. Specific surgical techniques, anaesthetic techniques and organisation of care, such as day case surgery, are not covered.