Closure Method Study Following Tonsillectomy in Children

Decreased Morbidity With Closure of the Tonsillar Fossae

This is a children's study evaluating the effects of a tonsillectomy with tonsillar fossae closure compared to without closure of the operative wound.

This is a children's study. Patients experience significant postoperative pain, activity limitation and sometimes other significant postoperative complications. We are going to compare the effects of closing the tonsil wound versus non-closure. A daily journal will be kept (by the patient's parent or legal guardian)to log in measures of morbidity. Postoperative telephone calls will be made and scripted questions will be asked regarding any tonsillar hemorrhage requiring medical re-evaluation, and dehydration requiring medical re-evaluation. The patients will also be examined in the clinic at 10-14 days postoperatively to determine if the fossa remained closed or dehisced.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Normal children between that ages of five to ten requiring a tonsillectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children older than ten years of age.
• Those children with identified syndromes, cleft palates and velopharyngeal insufficiency will not be eligible.