AB223. Postoperative analgesia for adolescent tonsillectomy

Background: Post-tonsillectomy pain remains a significant problem for the older patient which is reflected in the medical literature. Paediatric pain after such surgery is much more manageable but continues to stimulate a significant amount of clinical discussion in publications. There is a dearth of information or guidelines on analgesia management in the adolescent patient after tonsil removal, our aim was to audit a group of such patients undergoing tonsillectomy since the introduction of a Palexia (Tapentadol) weight-related protocol for post-operative pain.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of all patients aged between the age of 14 and 18 who underwent primary tonsillectomy under a single surgeon during a 2-year period. Patient demographics were collated and outcome measures recorded including delayed discharge, tolerance and side effects of medication and readmission for pain control and/or haemorrhage.

Results: Ninety-four patients satisfied the criteria for the audit. There were no delayed discharges and no reports of complications or difficulty with medication. There were no readmissions for pain management. Three patients were presented with post-tonsillectomy haemorrhage and none required surgical intervention.

Conclusions: A weight-related protocol with Tapentadol provides a guideline for what seems to be safe and appropriate postoperative pain management in the adolescent post-tonsillectomy.

Keywords: Adolescent; tonsillectomy; postoperative; analgesia