What are the common reasons why people regret getting a tonsillectomy?

回答於 : 2024-07-12

參考資料

When do adults need their tonsils removed? - Summa Health

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Decisional Conflict and Regret in Parents Whose Children Undergo ...

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Decisional Conflict and Regret in Parents Whose Children ...

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答案

完善答案

People may regret getting a tonsillectomy for various reasons, ranging from preoperative concerns to postoperative complications. Here are some common reasons for regret:

1. **Complications and Postoperative Issues**:

- **Pain and Discomfort**: Many patients experience moderate to severe pain in the throat for one to two weeks after the surgery, along with pain in the ears, neck, or jaw[7].

- **Risk of Bleeding**: There's a risk of bleeding, especially when the scab formed during healing falls off, which can lead to emergency room visits[5].

- **Other Postoperative Problems**: Other issues may include nausea, vomiting, mild fever, bad breath, swelling of the tongue or throat, and anxiety or sleep disturbances in children[7].

2. **Perceived Outcome of Surgery**:

- **Expectations vs. Reality**: Some parents and patients might have high expectations for the surgery's outcomes, expecting immediate and complete relief from symptoms, which might not always be the case. This can lead to disappointment and regret[5].

3. **Preoperative Decisional Conflict**:

- **Uncertainty Before Surgery**: Preoperative decisional conflict, where parents or patients are uncertain about whether surgery is the best option, can contribute to regret if the outcomes do not meet their expectations[5].

4. **Timing of Surgery**:

- **Delaying the Surgery**: Some parents regret not having arranged the surgery earlier, especially if their child's condition worsens over time[6].

By understanding these potential reasons for regret, patients and their families can better discuss their concerns and expectations with their healthcare providers before deciding on a tonsillectomy. Proper preoperative counseling and setting realistic expectations are crucial in mitigating postoperative regret.