Using Ultrasound to assess tonsil size in children
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A novel Ultrasonographic method of assessing paediatric tonsillar size.
IRAS ID
151278
Contact name
Stacey Dawson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Aberdeen / NHS Grampian
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 1 days
Research summary
The doctor that specialises in putting child to sleep (Anaesthetist) has to place a breathing tube in the child's throat while they are asleep. This tube must be passed through the gap between the tonsils, tongue and the roof of the mouth.
Children often have large tonsils in relation to the size of the neck and this can limit space inside the throat. By measuring tonsil size and looking at the space available in the throat, we hope to be able to predict how easy (or difficult) placing the tube will be, and assess the relationship between the size of the tonsils and the effect on breathing and quality of sleep.
This research could help reduce the risk of putting sick children to sleep, by identifying children in whom it may be difficult to place a breathing tube. We hope to also identify children who might benefit from having tonsils removed, improving breathing during sleep.
Ultrasound is a type of very high pitched sound wave, and is used routinely to look at the growing baby during pregnancy. It provides a picture of structures inside the body by producing and detecting sound waves. Ultrasound of the tonsils is very safe, painless, and quick – it is performed in less than 2 minutes. We place the ultrasound probe gently on the skin of the neck once the child is fully anaesthetised.There is no risk of injury or illness from use of the ultrasound machine.
Ultrasound of the tonsils can be performed by the Anaesthetist when the child is being prepared for their operation with no added risks to the procedure.
REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/0359
Date of REC Opinion
21 Oct 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion