Preparing your child and explaining what to expect will go a long way to making the day smooth and enjoyable for everyone. Please feel free to call the play specialist on the 5th floor to discuss the books and games which are available to help prepare your child for surgery.
Tonsillectomy usually involves a one night stay in hospital. Most parents stay with their child overnight. Parents are made to feel welcome and as involved as they wish.
Your child is usually admitted late on the morning of the surgery to acclimatize to the environment. You will also be seen by the anaesthetist (Dr. Adrian Lloyd Thomas), the resident doctor (a paediatrician) and Mr Albert to confirm details of the surgery and for you to sign the consent form.
Breakfast at least 6 hours before surgery is a good idea as it reduces any hunger. Clear fluids can be given up to 2 hours before surgery. Topical anaesthetic cream (The Magic Cream) may be put on and covered with a clear plastic film. This numbs the skin so that the anaesthetist can give the drugs needed to start anaesthesia. See Dr Lloyd-Thomas's own page for details
The operation takes 20-40 minutes though your child may be away for as long as an hour. You will be called in good time to be with your child as he/she recovers.
What happens after the procedure? Most children are a little disorientated and thirsty after the procedure and may cry despite adequate analgesia. Once they are fully awake and have had a drink they quickly improve and most will typically tuck into a hearty supper. Your child will stay in hospital overnight and then will usually be fit to go home in the morning after breakfast and having been seen by Mr. Albert.
Once at home most children do well with some pain which is controlled. Often the 3rd and 4th days are worst than the first couple of days.
Pain Given good analgesia the pain for most children is well controlled and not a major problem.
It is sensible to keep them away from children with infections for about a week, though your child will be given antibiotics If your child becomes unwell and develops a high temperature or if there is any sign of bleeding, please contact me or the hospital immediately.