Comparing outcomes of lateral pharyngoplasty with tonsillectomy in children

Post-operative Outcomes of Tonsillectomy With Lateral Pharyngoplasty Versus Tonsillectomy Alone in Children: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Loma Linda University · NCT05575401

This study tests if adding a throat surgery called lateral pharyngoplasty to tonsil removal helps children recover better and feel less pain after their operation.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment160 (estimated)
Ages3 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
SponsorLoma Linda University Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Murrieta, California and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05575401 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This treatment study aims to evaluate the benefits of performing lateral pharyngoplasty alongside tonsillectomy in children aged 3-17. It will compare pain levels, oral intake, and bleeding complications between children undergoing the combined procedure and those receiving tonsillectomy alone. Participants will be randomized to receive either treatment, and their parents will track pain scores, medication use, and any complications post-surgery. The goal is to determine if lateral pharyngoplasty can improve recovery outcomes for children undergoing tonsillectomy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 3-17 years who are scheduled for tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy.

Not a fit: Patients with congenital syndromes, developmental delays, cancer, or those requiring intracapsular tonsillectomy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to reduced pain and complications for children undergoing tonsillectomy.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of lateral pharyngoplasty with tonsillectomy is being evaluated, similar studies have shown promising results in improving surgical outcomes in pediatric populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants ages 3-17 years of age undergoing tonsillectomy +/- adenoidectomy at Loma Linda University Health

Exclusion Criteria:

* Subjects with congenital syndromes and/or developmental delay
* Subjects with cancer
* Subjects with gastrostomy tube use or dependence
* Subjects undergoing intracapsular tonsillectomy

Where this trial is running

Murrieta, California and 3 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Sleep-Disordered BreathingSleep Apnea Syndromes in ChildrenSleep Apnea, ObstructiveTonsillitisTonsillar HypertrophyTonsil StoneTonsil DiseaseTonsillectomy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.