Post-tonsillectomy advice: the UK patient experience

Objective Tonsillectomy is a common surgical procedure in the UK. This study critically examined the current advice provided by UK hospitals to patients about post-operative care. Method Post-tonsillectomy patient advice sheets were obtained from 110 UK National Health Service trusts and equivalent organisations. Their contents were analysed and compared with published literature to determine whether the advice being given to patients was evidence-based. Results Post-tonsillectomy dietary and fluid intake advice varied between hospitals; although many recommended eating and drinking a normal diet (88 per cent), some recommended eating 'hard' (26 per cent) or 'soft' (8 per cent) foods. Non-evidence based advice given included avoiding fizzy drinks (21 per cent), fruit juices (9 per cent) and using chewing gum (51 per cent). Reported post-operative risks and safety-netting also varied. Conclusion Much of the advice in the available printed information appeared to be anecdotal and not based on, or was contrary to, published evidence. After review of the literature, an evidence-based post-tonsillectomy patient advice sheet was generated for dissemination.

Automated summary

This study critically examines the post-operative care advice provided by UK hospitals to patients who undergo tonsillectomy. The results show that some of the advice given is not evidence-based and contradicts published literature. An evidence-based post-tonsillectomy patient advice sheet was generated based on the literature review.