Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 5, 2026

Gastric Point of Care Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation
05:50

Gastric Point of Care Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation

Published on: September 22, 2023

Efficacy of gastric aspiration in reducing posttonsillectomy vomiting

J E Jones1, A Tabaee, R Glasgold

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Weill College of Medicine at Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA. jjones@mail.med.cornell.edu

Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|September 5, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Postoperative gastric decompression via orogastric tube does not reduce vomiting after tonsillectomy in pediatric patients. This study found no significant difference in vomiting incidence or complications between decompressed and non-decompressed groups.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Anesthesiology

Background:

  • Vomiting is a common complication following tonsillectomy in pediatric patients.
  • Postoperative gastric decompression is a potential intervention to mitigate this issue.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness of postoperative gastric decompression in reducing vomiting and its associated complications after tonsillectomy.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, randomized controlled study involving 74 pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy.
  • The intervention group received postoperative gastric aspiration with an orogastric tube, while the control group did not.
  • Outcomes measured included vomiting incidence, episodes, volume, length of stay, antiemetic use, and readmissions.

Main Results:

  • No statistically significant differences were observed between groups for vomiting incidence (74% vs. 85%), mean episodes, emesis volume, or postoperative length of stay.
  • Rescue antiemetic use was similar (34% vs. 33%).
  • Unplanned admissions for vomiting showed no significant difference (9% vs. 15%).

Conclusions:

  • Postoperative gastric aspiration does not appear to decrease the incidence or complications of vomiting following tonsillectomy in pediatric patients.
  • Current evidence suggests this intervention is not effective in this surgical context.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy for the Treatment of Anastomotic Leakage after Total Gastrectomy with Esophagojejunostomy04:05

Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy for the Treatment of Anastomotic Leakage after Total Gastrectomy with Esophagojejunostomy

Published on: August 22, 2025

Non-Intubated Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery05:39

Non-Intubated Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery

Published on: May 26, 2023

Related Concept Videos

Tonsillitis II: Management01:26

Tonsillitis II: Management

This lesson will focus on the different treatment options for managing tonsillitis, which typically depend on the cause and severity.
Chronic Pharyngitis01:23

Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis refers to persistent inflammation of the pharyngial mucosa.
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care01:25

Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care

Surgical management and nursing care are crucial in treating Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD). Here is an organized and enhanced overview of the surgical interventions and the associated nursing care for PUD:
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway01:29

Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway

Nasopharyngeal suctioning is a procedure to remove secretions from the upper part of the respiratory tract that the patient cannot clear independently. It helps maintain airway patency and prevents complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
Equipment Required
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management01:29

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a persistent medical condition that affects many individuals worldwide. Its clinical manifestations can vary greatly, making diagnosis and management challenging for healthcare professionals. The following is a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations, assessment, and management strategies for GERD.
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...