Effect of lidocaine jelly on the post tonsillectomy complications

Laryngospasm, laryngitis and bleeding are the most serious complications after tonsillectomy. In this study, the frequency of these complications and their correlation with age, sex and application of lidocaine jelly has been assessed. The sample consisted of 100 patients aged from 5 to15 years undergoing tonsillectomy in Resalat hospital of Shahrekord, during 6 months. The subjects were divided randomly into two groups. Case group intubated with 2% lidocaine gel via the endotracheal tube, and control group intubated without lidocaine gel. Laryngospasm, laryngitis and bleeding were recorded during the first postoperative day. The incidence of laryngospasm and laryngitis was 8% and 17% respectively. There were no correlations between these problems and age or sex. The incidence of bleeding was 16% that was higher in older and female patients. The endotracheal tube lubrication with 2% lidocaine gel attenuated laryngospasm during recovery after tonsillectomy in children but it was not effective on laryngitis and bleeding. The application of lidocaine gelly after tonsilectomy for prevention of laryngospasm is recomended.