Comparing pain control methods after tonsil surgery in children
Official title: Single-Dose Intraoperative Methadone for Pain Management in Pediatric Tonsillectomy: A Randomized Double Blind Clinical Trial
Run by Duke University · NCT06576830 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether long-lasting pain medicine like methadone works better than short-lasting options like fentanyl and hydromorphone for controlling pain in kids and teens after tonsil surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 3 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 440 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Duke University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Durham, North Carolina) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 21, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2028 |
| Study ends | June 1, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | December 5, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06576830 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are children and adolescents aged 3 to 17 years scheduled for elective tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with chronic pain disorders, severe sleep apnea, or those requiring admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of long-acting opioids, specifically methadone, versus short-acting opioids like fentanyl and hydromorphone for managing postoperative pain in children and adolescents undergoing tonsillectomy. It is a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial that will include participants aged 3 to 17 years, who will be assigned to either methadone or short-acting opioids. The study will monitor pain management outcomes and potential side effects through daily surveys and follow-up calls for six months post-surgery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for pediatric tonsillectomy patients, reducing the need for rescue opioids.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have explored opioid management in postoperative settings, but this specific comparison of methadone versus short-acting opioids in a pediatric population is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age \>= 3 and \< 18 years 2. Elective tonsillectomy +/- adenoidectomy 3. Signed informed consent by parent or legal guardian 4. Children \>= 12 years must provide signed written consent, Children \>= 7 years must provide verbal assent 5. Negative pregnancy test within 48 hours for post pubescent females Exclusion Criteria: 1. History of chronic kidney or liver disease 2. Current diagnosis of a chronic pain disorder 3. Planned admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) 4. Additional procedures under general anesthesia for which opioids would be prescribed
Where it's running
-
Duke University Medical Center
Durham, North Carolina, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Lisa M. Einhorn, MD — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Lisa M Einhorn, MD
- Email: lisa.einhorn@duke.edu
- Phone: 9196814877
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Comparing outcomes of lateral pharyngoplasty with tonsillectomy in children
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.
-
Understanding the genetics and immune response in PFAPA syndrome and tonsil disorders
This study is trying to understand the genetics and immune responses in people with PFAPA syndrome and tonsil problems by collecting and analyzing blood and other samples.
-
Respiratory progression in adults with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: a long-term observational study
This study tests how respiratory function changes over three years in adults with genetically confirmed Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
-
Low-Volume PENG Block With Dexamethasone After Hip Replacement
This trial tests whether a smaller PENG block with dexamethasone provides similar pain relief but preserves quadriceps strength after hip replacement, compared with the standard-volume PENG block.
-
Analgesia after open inguinal hernia repair using intrathecal morphine or a transversalis fascia plane block
This trial tests whether intrathecal morphine or a ultrasound-guided transversalis fascia plane block can provide better pain relief after open inguinal hernia repair in adults.
-
Single-level vs two-level erector spinae plane block for breast surgery
This study tests whether a single-level ESPB provides similar pain relief to a two-level ESPB for adults undergoing breast surgery.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.