Cochrane Review summary: Oral rinses, mouthwashes and sprays for improving recovery following tonsillectomy

Abstract

Tonsillitis (inflammation or enlargement of the tonsils) occurs mainly in children due to a variety of reasons including chronic illness due to recurrent infection and enlargement of the tonsils, with difficulties in swallowing and breathing, very large tonsils that obstruct breathing, and recurrent ear infections. Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils, two pads of lymphoid (glandular) tissue located on each side at the back of the throat. There are side effects to the tonsillectomy procedure such as pain and bleeding, and various postoperative treatments have been used to minimise these symptoms from occurring. The aim of this Cochrane Review was to assess the effects of oral rinses, mouthwashes and sprays in improving recovery following tonsillectomy. The search for this review was updated in April 2011.