Frequent Questions Related to Otolaryngology
The Pediatric Otolaryngology / Head and Neck Surgery Division at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center provides the following frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers.
ENT-Related Questions
Answers
Q: My child has surgery tomorrow. When should he / she stop eating and drinking?
A: Patients should not take any solid food by mouth after midnight. They can have clear liquids (apple juice, gelatin, water, etc.) until four hours before time of surgery. Orange juice and formula are not clear liquids.
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Q: At what point does my child need PE (pressure equalizer) tubes?
A: Here are some indications for PE tube insertion:
- Otitis media with effusion which has been present for eight to 12 weeks in spite of adequate medical therapy
- Recurrent episodes of acute otitis media (at least four a year)
- Persistent high negative middle ear pressure associated with one of the following: conductive hearing loss, persistent or recurrent otalgia, persistent or recurrent vertigo, or a retraction pocked of the tympanic membrane
- Complications of otitis media
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Q: My child has had a couple episodes of tonsillitis. When should his / her tonsils be removed?
A: Here are some indications for tonsillectomy:
- Seven episodes of tonsillitis in one year
- Five episodes of tonsillitis per year for two years
- Three episodes of tonsillitis per year for three years
- Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
- Severe upper airway obstruction (not obstructive sleep apnea)
- Suspected malignancy of the tonsils.
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Q: My child is scheduled for surgery next month. When should I have the pre-op physical examination form filled out?
A: The pre-operation physical examination form must be filled out by the child's pediatrician or family doctor. Please make an appointment for the child to be examined no more than 30 days prior to the date of surgery. Please bring the completed form with you on the day of surgery.
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Q: Should I tell anyone my child is currently taking medication for seizures?
A: If your child takes any medications on a regular basis, please make a list of them including the name, strength and your child's current dose. Please bring this list on the day of surgery. It is not necessary to bring the medication.
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