Application of intraoperative hypothermic saline to relieve postoperative pain for pediatric coblation tonsillectomy

Yingxia Lu1, Yuke Dong2, Zhan Wang1

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, PR China.

Insights

Hypothermic saline used during pediatric coblation tonsillectomy significantly reduced postoperative pain. This method offers a safe and effective approach for managing pain in children after tonsil surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Coblation tonsillectomy is a common procedure for adenotonsillar hyperplasia in children.
  • Postoperative pain is a significant concern following tonsillectomy, impacting recovery and patient satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the efficacy of using hypothermic saline as the coblation medium in pediatric coblation tonsillectomy.
  • To assess the impact of hypothermic saline on postoperative pain levels in children.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study involving 48 children undergoing tonsillectomy ± adenoidectomy.
  • Children were divided into two groups: hypothermic saline (HTS) and normothermic saline (NTS) coblation medium.
  • Postoperative pain was evaluated daily for 7 days using questionnaires completed by children and parents.

Main Results:

  • Significant differences in coblation wand outlet water temperatures were noted between groups (p=0.000).
  • The HTS group reported significantly lower postoperative pain scores compared to the NTS group (p<0.05).
  • No adverse side effects were observed in the HTS group.

Conclusions:

  • Hypothermic saline as a coblation medium effectively reduces postoperative pain in pediatric coblation tonsillectomy.
  • This technique presents a safe and potentially beneficial option for pain management in pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy.
  • No detrimental financial or medical effects were associated with using hypothermic saline.
Abstract

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