View report page

180
up0" to almost normal size very quickly. The percentage of operations
in this sub-group was high (54.6 per cent.) and indicates that
the parents were aware of the need for treatment.
Sub-group B (90 Cases).
Tonsils defective and tonsillar glands enlarged.
Observation Cases.—In this group there were only four cases,
of whom three were subsequently recommended operation.
Operation Cases.—95 per cent, of those operated on improved.
Of those not operated on, only 34 per cent, improved. 52.3 per
cent of the operations recommended were carried out.
The result of non-operation here is not so good as in any of the
other sub-groups considered so far. If there is any doubt about
the child's health being affected by the condition of the throat, it
is probably better to recommend operation even at first inspection.
If, however, the child's health seems to be in no way impaired, the
child may be kept under observation for some months.
Sub-group C (62 Cases).
Tonsils defective and mouth breathing.
Observation Cases.—There were only three cases, two of which
were recommended operation later.
Operation Cases.—52 per cent, of the operations recommended
were performed; but only 80 per cent, improved, four of the children
requiring nearly two years before giving up mouth breathing. 40
per cent, improved without operation—a higher proportion than
one might have expected.
The numbers in this sub-group are small, but where the condition
is likely to be due to any temporary cause, observation for
some months might be indicated. Otherwise, operation should be
considered.