gms | German Medical Science

Introduction: Tonsillectomy is one of the most common childhood surgical procedures performed worldwide. Honey administration showed to increase epithelialization of wound and rich source of mediator and immune factor. Deepithelialized cavity of tonsil may be cover faster by honey administration and postoperative pain may be relive faster. In this study we want to evaluate the effects of honey on the severity of postoperative pain in patients undergoing tonsillectomy.

Patients and Methods: A randomized, prospective case-controlled study was performed. 80 patients, who were 5-15 year old, and were scheduled for tonsillectomy, were divided into two equal groups, with honey and without honey. Tonsillectomy was done under general anesthesia, and by cold dissection. Postoperative usual analgesic and antibiotic regimen were administrated for all patients. Acetaminophen plus honey was administered for the honey group, and acetaminophen for the control group. Honey group take honey each 4 hour in wake time and when they need prior to decide acetaminophen intake. If pain not relieved they try acetaminophen.

Results: The difference between acetaminophen and acetaminophen plus honey groups was statistically significant both for visual analogue scale (VAS), and number of painkillers taken within the first three postoperative days. The consumption of painkillers differed significantly in every five postoperative days. No significant difference was found between groups regarding the number of awaking at night.

Conclusions: Postoperative oral honey intake can reduce postoperative pain and analgesic requirements. Honey is accessible, not expensive and haven´t specific adverse effect.so we can recommend it as routine use in post tonsillectomy use in children.

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