# Bleeding and Pain Post-tonsillectomy: An Adult Cohort Study

## TL;DR

This study examines how often and how badly adults bleed and feel pain after tonsillectomy in the UK, finding that most experience bleeding and severe pain around days 4-6.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into post-tonsillectomy bleeding and pain patterns in adults, based on patient-reported outcomes.

## Key findings

- 67% of patients reported post-operative bleeding.
- Pain was most severe on Days 4-6 with a median score of 8/10.
- Patients had 21 post-operative interactions with healthcare services, including emergency department visits.

## Abstract

Background

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures performed. This study aimed to understand the rate and severity of post-operative bleeding and pain in adult patients undergoing tonsillectomy in the United Kingdom.

Methods

A total of 10 secondary and tertiary otolaryngology units recruited adults prior to tonsillectomy and provided them with a diary to complete and return. This diary recorded the frequency and severity of post-operative bleeding and the intensity and pattern of post-operative pain.

Results

In total, 75 patients were recruited with 18 complete patient diaries analysed (median age 24.8, range: 17-50 years); of these 12 (67%) reported post-operative bleeding. Pain was most severe on Days 4-6 (median score 8/10) and then declined over the 21-day study period. There were 21 post-operative interactions with healthcare services recorded by these patients: 15 emergency department and six general practice visits.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the pattern of post-procedural pain and bleeding in adult tonsillectomy and the high rate of interaction with healthcare providers. Improved understanding will allow more accurate consent conversations and patient counselling.