Tonsillectomy, with or without adenoidectomy, is one of the most common ENT procedures. The surgery is usually carried out for recurrent tonsillitis meeting the SIGN guidelines or sleep disordered breathing.
Tonsillectomy is a very painful operation. The greatest post-operative challenge is to keep the child comfortable and able to eat and drink normally. Regular analgesia is key.
At present most children stay in hospital overnight after the procedure.
The post-tonsillectomy haemorrhage rate is around 3%. Bleeding can occur up to 2 weeks post-operatively. Minor haemorrhage (blood-tinged saliva, spotting on pillow) is thought to be very common and normal.
Post operatively the tonsillar bed turns yellow/white and sloughy. This is normal and not a sign of infection.
C.M & G.T – 16-10-26
If symptomatic, please assess oral cavity for bleeding – basic resuscitation may be necessary.
- If history suggestive of major bleed or ongoing bleeding transfer to A&E urgently.
- If history suggestive of minor bleed can be observed.
