Abstract
Objective: Evaluate the effect of a 5-day course of oral prednisolone vs matched placebo on postoperative recovery following tonsillectomy in a pediatric population.
Method: A total of 195 children undergoing tonsillectomy were randomly allocated to 5 days oral prednisolone or placebo. These were presented in identical bottles and tasted similar. Pain and return of function were assessed on each of the first 8 postoperative days using a validated face pain scale and daily symptom questionnaires.
Results: There are no significant differences seen between placebo and control groups for any of the parameters assessed. These include; pain scores, nausea and vomiting, time to return to normal activity and oral intake, bedtime and sleep disturbance.
Conclusion: There is no significant difference in early outcomes following pediatric tonsillectomy between those given a postoperative oral steroid course compared to placebo.