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183
Sub-group A (75 Cases.)
Tonsils septic.
Observation Cases.—There are only five children, of whom
two were recommended operation later. Two cleared up under
observation and one remained stationary.
Operation Cases.—94 per cent, of the cases operated on improved.
Only 25 per cent, of the cases not operated on improved.
Operation appears to be the treatment of choice here providing
the tonsils are not being infected by septic teeth—a condition
which should always be looked for.
Sub-group B (33 Cases).
Tonsils septic and tonsillar glands enlarged.
Observation Cases.—Only four cases under observation, of
whom three improved and one remained stationary.
Operation Cases.—Of the 13 cases operated on, all improved.
Six (38 per cent.) cleared up without operation—a better result
than the last sub-group showed. It has been suggested by some
observers that, when tonsillar glands are enlarged, it is evidence
that the infection is being dealt with and that there is more likelihood
of the condition clearing up ultimately. The results here may
be taken as some slight evidence in support of that contention.
If, however, a period of observation is recommended before operation,
it should be short.
Sub-group C (15 Cases).
Tonsils septic and mouth breathing.
The numbers here are small, but the results agree with those of
the two previous sub-groups.
Sub-group D (2 Cases).
Tonsils septic, tonsillar glands enlarged and mouth breathing
Both cases were operated on with excellent results.