Tonsils are small, round pieces of tissue in the back of the mouth on either side of the throat. Adenoids, which are similar to tonsils, are in the back of the nasal cavity.
Tonsils and adenoids are often removed when they become large and inflamed due to frequent infections. When enlarged, these tissues can block the airway and cause sleep apnea. The removal of tonsils is referred to as tonsillotomy, and the removal of adenoids is called adenoidectomy. The two are often removed at the same time.
Most tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies are done on an outpatient basis. This surgery is a common one for children. This surgery is performed more than 530,000 times annually on patients 15 years or under.
Signs and Symptoms
Your doctor may deem a T&A surgery necessary if you or your child experiences reoccurring tonsillitis or adenoiditis.
Symptoms of tonsillitis include:
· Red, swollen tonsils
· Sore throat
· Difficult or painful swallowing
· Bad breath
· Fever
· Enlarged, tender glands in the neck
· White or yellow coating or patches on the tonsils
· Headache
· Neck pain or stiff neck
· Stomachache
Symptoms of adenoiditis:
· Sounding nasally when you speak, as if you’re talking through your nose
· Sore or dry throat from breathing through the mouth
· Breathing through your mouth feels more comfortable than breathing through your nose
· Snoring during the night or any time you sleep
· Symptoms of infection such as runny nose and green or discolored mucus
Risks of the Procedure
There are usually few side effects after a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. However, there are a few risks including breathing problems and medication reactions related to anesthesia.
· Bleeding during surgery, immediately afterward, or at home
· Dehydration from not drinking enough fluids
· Infection at the side of the surgery
· Difficulty breathing from swelling after the surgery
At Ohio Head and Neck Surgeons, we understand your concerns when seeking diagnosis and treatment options for Ear, Nose, and Throat injuries and diseases. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our quality ENT specialists. For more information on scheduling click here.
To prepare for your first appointment, you can also visit our New Patients page to find important forms you will need at your appointment including registration and health history.
