Abstract | INTRODUCTION: The authors present a potential complication associated with the surgical management of post- tonsillectomy haemorrhage using absorbable cellulose haemostatic dressings. The article discusses the deficiencies of our current understanding of how best to manage this common and potentially life-threatening ENT emergency. CASE REPORT: A 40-year-old man presented to Accident-and-Emergency with a post- tonsillectomy haemorrhage on the 7th postoperative day. The bleeding was managed surgically, with suturing of the faucial pillars incorporating a piece of Surgicel into the closure. Two days later the patient experienced an episode of partial airway obstruction, due to a piece of dislodged haemostatic material, owing to failure of the closure. The techniques used in the operative management of post- tonsillectomy bleeding are not formally evaluated or discussed in the current literature, and in some cases are unreliable or even potentially hazardous. Further discussion, research, and formulation of a more stepwise approach would be of considerable benefit.
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Authors | T Jacques, R Nash, B Kenway, P Vlastarakos |
Journal | B-ENT
(B-ENT)
Vol. 9
Issue 4
Pg. 335-7
( 2013)
ISSN: 1781-782X [Print] Belgium |
PMID | 24597111
(Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
- Cellulose, Oxidized
- Polyglactin 910
- Surgicel
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Topics |
- Adult
- Cellulose, Oxidized
(administration & dosage)
- Follow-Up Studies
- Hemostasis, Surgical
(methods)
- Humans
- Male
- Polyglactin 910
(administration & dosage)
- Postoperative Hemorrhage
(etiology, surgery)
- Tonsillectomy
(adverse effects)
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