SNAKES trial: jelly snakes to prevent PONV in kids after ENT surgery
Research type
Research Study
Full title
SNAKES: a pilot trial of Jelly Snakes to prevent postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Kids after ENT Surgery
IRAS ID
254727
Contact name
Graham Wilson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Aberdeen and NHS Grampian
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Postoperative nausea and vomiting in children is a common phenomenon, particularly after ear nose and throat (ENT) surgery. While it affects up to 80% of patients who do not receive preventative medication during their operation, more than 1 in 5 children still suffer from postoperative nausea and vomiting after tonsillectomy even when given 2 medications to prevent it. Nausea and vomiting after an operation (postoperatively) particularly following tonsillectomy can be very painful and distressing for the child and their carer. Vomiting may also increase the risk of postoperative bleeding. Postoperative nausea and vomiting is not only one of the main reasons for prolonged hospital stay or re-admission in children; it is also one of the main reasons for dissatisfaction with anaesthesia in children and their families. In adults, a pilot study has found that chewing gum postoperatively can significantly reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting. However, for young children particularly following anaesthesia, chewing gum may not be a safe option. Therefore in this pilot study we will investigate if chewing a large jelly confectionary snake after the anaesthetic will help to reduce nausea and vomiting. The children who are enrolled in the study will be randomised to receive a jelly snake or no jelly snake to chew once awake after the surgery. There will be no other changes to the standard management which will be in accordance to institutional guidelines. We will then compare the rates of vomiting between the children who did and did not receive a jelly snake to chew. We will also monitor other oral and food intake and requirements for painkillers, as well as for other potential problems (e.g. delayed discharge) after surgery.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/LO/0702
Date of REC Opinion
3 May 2019
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion