Reducing the exposure of the tonsillar fossa does not impact postoperative pain levels in children undergoing tonsillectomy: A double-blind randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

It is not established whether reducing the exposure of the tonsillar fossa would be an effective strategy for postoperative pain relief among the pediatric population submitted to tonsillectomy. We assessed the impact of closing this region using absorbable sutures on pain, on the resumption of normal diet and on the healing process until seven days after surgery.

METHODS

Randomized, double-blind, controlled trial comparing postoperative pain in 132 children between the ages of 5 and 12 years undergoing tonsillectomy having bilateral closure, unilateral closure or non-closure of the tonsillar fossa.

RESULTS

No differences in pain levels were reported both at discharge and on postoperative day 7. The day of resumption of normal diet was similar in all patients. Less granuloma and edema of the uvula were noted in patients with non-closure of the tonsillar fossa.

CONCLUSION

These results showed that reducing the exposure of the tonsillar fossa after the removal of the palatine tonsils was not an effective method for postoperative pain relief in children. Moreover, its closure was associated with slower healing.