Management of children with inherited mild bleeding disorders undergoing adenotonsillar procedures

ObjectiveTo evaluate the incidence of perioperative bleeding among children with mild bleeding disorders who underwent adenotonsillar surgery in our hospital and were treated with our perioperative bleeding prophylaxis protocol.MethodsRetrospective chart review was aimed at determining the perioperative bleeding rate in children with mild bleeding disorders subjected to our prophylactic protocol while undergoing adenotonsillar procedures. Low von Willebrand factor (LVWF), unspecific platelet function disorders (UPFD) and mild factor VII deficiency were considered as mild bleeding disorders. The protocol utilizes intravenous desmopressin, tranexamic acid, NSAID avoidance, and overnight observation.ResultsBetween 2004 and 2009, 44 children with mild bleeding disorders underwent adenotonsillar procedures in our hospital and were treated with the protocol. One patient (LVWF + UPFD) developed perioperative bleeding (2.3%).ConclusionsIt is possible to obtain low rates of perioperative bleeding in children with mild bleeding disorders undergoing adenotonsillar procedures, provided there is a well-timed diagnosis and an adequate prophylaxis protocol. We believe that further efforts must be directed at preoperative diagnosis of mild bleeding disorders to ensure safer surgeries.