MOTT ENT Post-op Tonsillectomy

Functionality & Mechanism

Developed at the University of Michigan Mott Otolaryngology clinic, this application delivers postoperative guidance to caregivers of pediatric tonsillectomy patients. The system provides a menu-driven interface to access information on common recovery concerns, including pain management, diet, bleeding, and throat appearance. The interface presents anticipatory guidance, personalized pain medication regimens, and visual aids to reinforce clinical instructions. The platform also integrates direct access to clinic contact information to facilitate communication when necessary.

Evidence & Research Context

• A preliminary pilot study (N=53 caregivers) at a single pediatric hospital evaluated the app's usability and acceptance against standard paper-based instructions.
• Among caregivers who used the app (n=36), 89% reported a preference for the digital format over traditional paper-based instructions.
• Compared to the paper instruction cohort, a significantly greater proportion of app users rated the tool as "very helpful" and "very easy to use."
• Caregivers using the app referenced the instructions more frequently and made proportionally fewer calls to the clinic regarding postoperative concerns.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is designed for caregivers of pediatric patients as an adjunct resource for managing post-tonsillectomy recovery. It provides standardized, on-demand guidance to reinforce discharge instructions and assist in routine care decisions. The tool is not a substitute for direct medical evaluation and does not manage emergencies; caregivers must contact a clinician for urgent concerns.