Analgesia following adenotonsillar surgery in children: is Oramorph required in addition to paracetamol and ibuprofen?

Publication date: Available online 16 November 2016
Source:European Annals of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Diseases
Author(s): R. Wei Chern Gan, T. Kamani, M. Daniel
BackgroundRecent advice against codeine use in children prompted our unit to prescribe Oramorph as required, in addition to regular paracetamol and ibuprofen, as post-(adeno)tonsillectomy analgesia. This study investigated whether Oramorph was in fact required.MethodsFollowing (adeno)tonsillectomy, parents were telephoned and asked whether they used Oramorph.ResultsOf 56 children studied, 41 (73.2%) were given Oramorph. In the 15 (26.8%) that were not, this was because parents felt it was not required in 14 children, and in 1 case, it was due to worries about side effects. Overall, 14 carers (25.0%) expressed concerns about Oramorph use, mostly over possible side effects.ConclusionWhen regular paracetamol and ibuprofen are used post-(adeno)tonsillectomy, nearly three quarters of children require Oramorph as well. Prescribing Oramorph as required, in addition to regular paracetamol and ibuprofen, is appropriate following adenotonsillar surgery.



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