Post-tonsillectomy haemorrhage in Australia—a multivariable analysis of risk factors

Abstract

Background: Tonsillectomy is a common procedure in otolaryngology and currently, there are limited multivariable analyses regarding factors associated with secondary post-tonsillectomy haemorrhage (PTH) in an Australian metropolitan setting. This study aims to provide further analysis of various factors associated with secondary PTH in an Australian metropolitan health service. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted for all elective tonsillectomies performed at Western Health, Australia between December 2011 and December 2015. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: A total of 1,257 tonsillectomies were included. Secondary PTH was observed in 87 (6.9%) patients with 35 (2.8%) returning to theatre. No differences in PTH were found between surgical techniques, month of tonsillectomy, same day discharge and surgeon experience. Multivariable analysis showed that patients receiving ibuprofen (OR =2.07; 95% CI =1.08, 3.99), as well as a 1-year increase in age (OR =1.03; 95% CI =1.01, 1.05) were associated with significantly increased odds of PTH. Conclusions: Tonsillectomy is a common procedure in otolaryngology and this study provides updated local data for a more accurate comparison of surgical outcome.