A controlled prospective study was performed on 429 consecutive childr
en undergoing adenoidectomy, of which 263 were day-cases. Adenoidectom
y was done alone, or in combination with other minor procedures. There
was only one reactionary haemorrhage in each group, and these were ea
rly and easily recognized by the recovery staff. No other significant
complication was seen. Adenoidectomy in children as a day-case procedu
re is safe and cost-effective.