Paediatric tonsillectomy: parental experience and outcomes

P J Robb1, K Gowrinath, K Agyeman

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK. peter.robb@epsom-sthelier.nhs.uk

Insights

Parental satisfaction and positive health outcomes were reported following childhood tonsillectomy. This study highlights the high value patients place on tonsillectomy benefits, despite public health cost-saving measures.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Health Services Research

Background:

  • Tonsillectomy is a common surgical procedure in children.
  • Recurrent tonsillitis and upper airway obstruction are primary indications.
  • The current healthcare climate questions the economic viability of high-volume procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess parental experience and satisfaction with childhood tonsillectomy.
  • To evaluate health outcomes from the parental perspective.
  • To understand patient-reported benefits of tonsillectomy.

Main Methods:

  • A structured postal questionnaire was administered to parents/guardians.
  • The study included 77 children undergoing elective day-case tonsillectomy.
  • A response rate of 63.6% was achieved from parents/guardians.

Main Results:

  • Overall satisfaction with the tonsillectomy procedure was high.
  • Parents reported positive health outcomes for their children post-surgery.
  • The benefits of tonsillectomy were highly rated by service users.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood tonsillectomy yields high parental satisfaction and positive outcomes.
  • Patients highly value the benefits of tonsillectomy, supporting its continued use.
  • The study findings contrast with public health agendas focused on limiting such procedures.
Abstract

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