Effect of Suturation Plus Surgicel Application on Post-Tonsillectomy Bleeding and Pain.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of suturation (tonsillary fossa closure) plus Surgicel application on postoperative bleeding and pain after tonsillectomies performed using a classical dissection method. STUDY DESIGN: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, clinical trial was performed on 760 patients undergoing tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy during a 5-year period. METHODS: After excluding patients with hemorrhagic disorder, chronic disease, and peritonsillar abscess, both tonsils were removed via classic dissection technique (cold knife or blunt dissection) and then electrocauterized for hemostasis. The tonsillar fossa randomly assigned to the treatment protocol (Group 1) was closed by sutures, following Surgicel application. The other side was unaltered and acted as the control (Group 2). Pain was evaluated every day for 10 days postoperatively, and bleeding was reported at any time. RESULTS: A total of 760 patients (393 males, 367 females) between the ages of 4 and 35 years (mean age 13.46 ±â€Š7.98) were included in the study. Bleeding was observed in 31 patients 8 from Group 1; and 23 from Group 2 (95% confidence interval [CI], P < 0.05). The average pain score was greater in Group 1 than in Group 2 on each postoperative day (95% CI, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Suturation plus Surgicel application increased pain levels while decreasing bleeding incidence during the postoperative period.