Post-tonsillectomy pain in children is a common and clinically significant problem that may lead to poor oral intake, dehydration, and delayed recovery. This study evaluates whether a simple preoperative intervention-gargling with ketamine-can reduce postoperative pain and improve recovery after pediatric adenotonsillectomy. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 420 children aged 4 to 12 years undergoing elective adenotonsillectomy were assigned to receive either a ketamine gargle (40 mg in saline) or a saline placebo prior to anesthesia induction. Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale at multiple time points within the first 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes included postoperative bleeding requiring reintervention, analgesic consumption, and adverse events. The study aims to determine whether topical ketamine provides effective and safe analgesia as part of an opioid-sparing strategy in pediatric airway surgery.
Age range
4 Years – 12 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Postoperative pain intensity
Timeframe: 0, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours postoperatively