Journal of Anesthesiology and Pain

Background and aims: Ketamine efficacy as an analgesic adjuvant has been studied in
several clinical settings with conflicting results. Sore throat and pain after swallowing
following tonsillectomy is significant. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of low
dose ketamine on sore throat (pain) after tonsillectomy.
Materials and methods: In this double blind clinical trial, fifty children were, divided into
two equal groups of Ketamine and control. The subjects aged 4-14 years old and physical ASA
class I-II were randomized to receive pemedication with either ketamine 0.lmg/kg I.V. or
placebo, 5 minutes before induction of a standard general anesthesia.
Results: The ketamine group showed significantly lower pain scores with less total
pethidine consumption (P<0.005) during 6h after surgery. The mean pain score in ketamine
group was 1.32±1.02 and in control group was 2.4±1.25. There were no differences in the
incidence of vomiting between the groups.
Conclusion: Premedication with a small dose of ketamine reduces pain after tonsillectomy
in children who received an analgesic regimen combined with an opioid.