Postoperative Care After Tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures performed on both pediatric and adult patients; it is frequently associated with significant postoperative pain, difficulty swallowing, and the risk of complications such as bleeding and infection. The recovery period requires care aimed at minimizing discomfort, promoting healing, and preventing adverse events. Metabolic demands increase postoperatively due to surgical stress and the tissue repair process. Adequate nutrition, with a focus on protein intake, is fundamental for the synthesis of new proteins, the repair of injured tissues, and the maintenance of immune function-all essential for rapid, effective recovery and the prevention of complications. Insufficient protein intake can compromise surgical wound healing and the immune response. Additionally, the integrity and hydration of the oropharyngeal mucosa are crucial following a tonsillectomy. Surgical trauma and exposure to ambient air (especially after anesthesia and intubation) can lead to mucosal dryness, pain, discomfort, and scab formation, potentially hindering healing and increasing the risk of secondary infections. Micronebulization with saline solutions emerges as a potential intervention to hydrate the mucosa, alleviate discomfort, and promote the healing process. Despite the recognized importance of nutrition and local humidification, evidence regarding the combined impact of protein supplementation strategies and the use of micronebulizers on the recovery of patients undergoing tonsillectomy-specifically within a randomized clinical trial-requires further investigation. This study aims to contribute to the evidence base by evaluating the efficacy of these combined interventions on relevant clinical outcomes.