Post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage: an assessment of risk factors

Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 1996 Sep;37(1):35-43. doi: 10.1016/0165-5876(96)01364-x.

Abstract

Hemorrhage is the most frequent complication of tonsillectomy and is responsible for the majority of post-tonsillectomy fatalities. The incidence of this hemorrhage has been reported to be as high as 20% [6]. Despite continued efforts to reduce this problem, it remains a persistent risk. The charts of 1138 patients who underwent tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy from 7-1-89 to 6-30-93 were reviewed. Post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage occurred in 36 patients (3%). Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative risk factors were assessed. Postoperative bleeding occurred more often in older patients (69% over age 11 years). Seventy-five per cent of these patients were operated on for chronic tonsillitis as compared to 11% operated on for upper airway obstruction. The majority of these patients presented after postoperative day 1 (83%). Four patients required blood transfusions. Postoperative hemorrhage occurred in 14% of patients with elevated postoperative mean arterial pressures. Intraoperative blood loss that exceeded 50 cm3 was also a significant risk factor for post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage. It is concluded that older age, a history of chronic tonsillitis, excessive intraoperative blood loss and elevated postoperative mean arterial pressure are significant risk factors for post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage. An awareness of these risk factors can help identify patients with potential to bleed postoperatively.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adenoidectomy / adverse effects
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Airway Obstruction
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Intraoperative Complications
  • Male
  • Prothrombin Time
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors
  • Tonsillectomy / adverse effects*